China’s increasing involvement on the global political stage has not gone unnoticed. The economic superpower is gaining influence, and not just in its direct neighbourhood, but across the globe. By providing loans for infrastructural projects, China gains access to essential resources and binds foreign nations in political ties. Additionally, China is making major military moves, especially in strengthening the capacity of its air force and its marine. So how should we view this rise of China from a security perspective? What are the implications of China’s growing sphere of influence? The answer to these questions and others will be discussed during Clingendael’s Training Course on International Security.

Want to know more about China on the world stage? Join our Course International Security
China’s increased presence can be easily seen in Asia and Africa, but also increasingly in Europe. On first sight, this appears to be a win-win situation: China develops infrastructure in (South) Eastern Europe to facilitate the access of Chinese companies to the European market while the European countries receive support in their efforts to further develop their countries. But is the win-win actually an even win for all parties involved?

Recently, China opened their first overseas military base in Djibouti, close to the American military base. The US perceives this development as a major threat to their strategic interests. The US has even accused China of positioning their laser weapons towards American aircrafts. Earlier this year, the US published their National Defence Strategy listing China as one of the challenges to American national security interests. 

Moreover, China has started to heavily invest in Eastern Europe, namely in the Visegrad countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia). One of China’s top diplomats called these states 'the most dynamic force' in the European Union. Some Western European states are worried that China is trying to create a divide within the Union by courting Eastern European countries, especially those that have received criticism from Brussel regarding immigration and good governance issues. 

Are you curious about the implications of the rise of China for international or European security and stability? Are you interested in other security issues and dilemma’s in general? If so, the Course International Security is meant for you.

What will you learn?
The Course International Security will take place from 24 October-2 November 2018 at the Clingendael Institute and will address the most important security trends of today. Amongst others, China-expert and Senior Research Associate Dr. Ingrid d’Hooghe will discuss the security implications of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, you will analyse and discuss a wide variety of security-related topics, such as cyberwarfare, terrorism, the Russian threat, the future of Trans-Atlantic cooperation, the ring of instability surrounding Europe and (un)intended consequences of peace missions. At the end of the course you will have developed a better understanding of the most urgent contemporary security risks.