China is an increasingly important actor in international peacekeeping and development cooperation in conflict areas. In doing so, the country follows an approach that draws a clear dividing line from Western notions of a "liberal peace" based on political inclusion: instead, it promotes a so-called "developmental peace", which prioritizes economic development.
In their new study for the Working Group on Peace and Development, PRIF-Researchers Pascal Abb and Xinyu Yuan investigate which inspirations current Chinese peace concepts draw on, and how they are applied in practice. The study will be presented in Berlin on November 17 and discussed with representatives from ministries and civil society.
According to the study, China's practical peace policy is primarily informed by recent political, historical, and ideological developments. Strong state authorities with significant leeway in setting development policy are seen as paramount for pacifying divided societies. In contrast, there are few references to classical approaches from the numerous schools of thought in Chinese philosophy, which emphasize individual and social justice as the foundation for peace.
Despite the clear differences between European and Chinese approaches, the study also outlines opportunities for cooperation: at the practical level, joint participation in UN peacekeeping operations, and at the intellectual level in strengthening Chinese peace and conflict research.
The Working Group on Peace and Development (FriEnt) is an association which brings together governmental organisations, church development agencies, civil society networks, and political foundations to strengthen prevention and peacebuilding efforts. FriEnt aims at strengthening voices in peace policy, promoting global dialogue, and advocating for peace-promoting approaches and strategies in politics and public life.