The global public opinion of China has significantly declined, and international analysts believe this is not a situation that can be taken lightly. The negative situation that has arisen regarding China may also have an impact on the global balance. This shift in opinion towards China is due to several factors, such as geopolitical tensions, human rights issues and economic inequalities. The intensifying rivalry between China and the US has also contributed to this negative perception. Furthermore, China’s policies towards neighbouring states, particularly its strong stance towards Taiwan and the South China Sea and its increasing military power, have also raised concerns amongst countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
China’s different approach and response
The perception of China varies across different countries, with some expressing more negative views of the country than others. Amongst those that have been particularly critical are Japan, Australia, and Vietnam, who have all expressed concerns about China’s policies and actions. Even in Europe, where China has cultivated a significant economic presence, there is growing unease about China’s influence in the region. This has been fuelled in part by incidents such as China’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict, where it did not remain neutral but instead aligned itself with Russia’s position. This has damaged China’s credibility on the international stage, leading to greater scrutiny of its actions and policies.
Chicago Council survey
The results of the Chicago Council’s investigation in 2023 have revealed that 58% of Americans view China’s growing power as a critical threat to the United States’ global dominance. This increase in concern about China’s rise reflects Americans’ growing discontent towards China since 2002. It is now widely accepted that China’s strength and growing influence pose a significant threat to the world.
It is not just America that is concerned about China’s activities. Most European countries, including Japan, India, Australia, Vietnam, and Taiwan, have also expressed similar concerns about China’s growing power. The shift in attitude towards China is significant and reflects the conditions that have arisen due to China’s actions. There is now fear of a potential military invasion and how it could impact political unity.
The investigation has highlighted that this change in attitude towards China is a consequence of China’s growing economic power and military modernisation efforts. The country’s increasing assertiveness in regional and global affairs has also been a significant cause of concern. The investigation has also revealed that China’s actions have led to a sharp decline in the existing position regarding the country since 2018.
Taiwan and the ongoing conflict and Taiwan’s public opinion
There is a widespread negative opinion of China in Taiwan. According to a 2023 poll conducted by National Chengchi University, the majority of Taiwanese people believe that cooperation with China may harm Taiwan’s independence. They are concerned about China’s aggressive and threatening behaviour, which they see as incompatible with Taiwan’s values of democracy and human rights.
The poll also revealed that Taiwan’s view of democracy vastly differs from China’s autocratic rule. This has made Taiwan cautious about China’s aggressive nature and has led to a negative perception of China amongst the Taiwanese public. Taiwan’s concerns about China are further fuelled by the latter’s continued military and international pressure on Taiwan.
The activities of both countries are under close scrutiny by the global community, and Taiwan’s independence remains a contentious issue. The negative sentiment towards China in Taiwan is not an appropriate situation for China, and it indicates a need for China to take a more conciliatory approach towards Taiwan. The global community is paying attention to the problem, and any misstep by either country could have far-reaching consequences.
Japan’s Reluctance to a Friendly Policy
The government of Japan has highlighted that its citizens have a complicated relationship with China, with a mix of mistrust and scepticism towards their neighbour. The Cabinet Office of Japan has presented the results of a survey indicating that the Japanese have rejected the move for a friendly gesture with China. This is mainly due to the disagreement over the treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear power plant being released into the Pacific Ocean. The release of this wastewater has caused concern amongst the Japanese people and its neighbouring countries, including China.
Additionally, the Chinese government has imposed a ban on Japanese seafood imports, which has resulted in economic losses for Japanese fishermen who depend on exporting their catch. The ban was imposed in response to the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, which caused radioactive contamination in the Pacific Ocean and raised concerns over the safety of Japanese seafood.
Moreover, the ongoing conflict over the disputed islands in the East China Sea has become a never-ending issue between the two countries. The islands, Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China, have been a source of tension for years, with both countries claiming sovereignty over them. The dispute has resulted in protests, diplomatic tensions, and military posturing, and there seems to be no end.
The ongoing relationship and geopolitical conflict with Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s relationship with China is complex and multifaceted, and it has undergone significant shifts in recent years. While the two countries have enjoyed a solid cooperative relationship, there have been tensions, particularly in geopolitics and economics.
China has invested heavily in Sri Lanka’s infrastructure, with notable examples such as the Colombo Port City, Southern Expressway, and Hambantota Port. While these investments have been beneficial for Sri Lanka’s development, they have also led to concerns about debt traps and environmental impact. Some experts point out that the debt incurred by Sri Lanka due to these investments could potentially pose an economic risk to the country.
Another factor complicating Sri Lanka’s relationship with China is India’s involvement in the region. With Sri Lanka situated in a strategically important location in the Indian Ocean, India, China, and the United States have been competing for dominance in the region. This competition has intensified in recent years, leading to tensions between Sri Lanka and its neighbours.
China’s human rights record has also emerged as a contentious issue in the global arena. Human rights organisations have accused China of suppressing minority groups, and public opinion polls have revealed that the situation in the country has created an oppressive environment for many of its citizens.
Overall, Sri Lanka’s relationship with China is complicated and influenced by a wide range of factors such as geopolitics, economics, and human rights. While the two countries have enjoyed strong cooperation, challenges and tensions need to be addressed to maintain a stable and beneficial relationship.
