There might be a way to influence China through the backdoor. Research suggests its citizens are not as anti-Western as we think. Our leaders should exploit this opportunity.
The West faces a rapidly evolving China marked by increasing state control and an atmosphere of civil repression. However, recent studies, such as those conducted by Professors Jennifer Pan and Yiqing Xu a few years ago, reveal Chinese public opinion is more diverse and liberal than many believe. These findings might present strategic opportunities for the West to positively influence China in the name of freedom. Specifically, Western leaders should pursue two main pathways: trade and education.
According to Pan and Xu’s research, a large portion of the Chinese population, “despite the risks, is eager to share their opinions.” Surprisingly, in a survey addressing a broad sample with the question, “should the government place limits on public gatherings during demonstrations?” 27.7% responded negatively. For another question, “should the government decide whether and how many children a couple can have?” the number of negative responses rose to 48%. Finally, to the question, “should the government allow people to express their political views?” a striking 59.2% answered yes. How can we encourage this growing thirst for freedom in China?
Fostering investments with Chinese entrepreneurs — if not liberal, at least leaning toward market freedom — could be a very wise choice. The data gathered by Pan and Xu show that Chinese citizens, especially the more educated and affluent, tend to support freer-market positions than the government’s policies. Prioritising relationships with these entrepreneurs could certainly amplify their voices, increase their international influence, and perhaps even inspire a debate within China on the need for greater political, social, and cultural openness. History shows introducing a more competitive and innovative market also promotes greater respect for individual rights.
A historical example of this is the partial liberalization of private cooperatives during the Perestrojka reforms in the 1980s, where the Soviet Union allowed limited private enterprise within a tightly controlled system. This shift, though modest, fostered new economic freedoms and a taste for market-driven enterprise, illustrating how even a slight opening in a command economy can lead to greater individual agency. Today, China, as the true successor to Moscow’s legacy, might see similar benefits in embracing gradual economic liberalization, especially by empowering entrepreneurs inclined toward market freedom.
Fields such as green technology, health, wellness, and digital innovation offer significant opportunities for Western companies to collaborate with Chinese partners. These areas are growing in China and they align with the aspirations of a portion of the Chinese population who seek greater economic freedom and market opportunities. By establishing solid business relationships with Chinese entrepreneurs who share liberal values, the West can help create a support network for more open economic reforms.
The West should also implement trade policies which encourage transparency and respect for human rights. Ethical standards clauses in trade agreements can encourage Chinese partners to adopt more responsible practices. The research suggests there is a “silent majority” in China in favour of economic reform and political liberalism. This implies a targeted trade strategy might already find fertile ground among Chinese citizens!
Investing in education and academic exchanges is another fundamental pathway to positively influence China. Chinese universities are often under the control of the Chinese Communist Party and the military, which restrict academic freedom. The West should support initiatives which promote human rights and knowledge of the history of democracies to counter these interferences.
Scholarships for Chinese students to Western universities could expose new generations to liberal values. Pan and Xu’s research highlights that Chinese university students, especially those studying abroad, are crucial to their country’s future as they are likely to become tomorrow’s leaders. Academic exchange programs could facilitate intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding with these key movers and shakers of the future.
The study goes on to show a significant portion of the Chinese population supports freedom of expression and opposes restrictions on public assemblies. This suggests there is room to promote liberal values, especially through education, which relies on persuasion rather than coercion—the preferred approach for liberals. Western universities should cautiously collaborate with Chinese institutions to develop curricula which encourage critical thinking.
Another important aspect is information campaigns aimed at the Chinese public. Using digital platforms, the West could spread educational content on topics such as human rights, democracy, and the history of civil liberties. These messages could reach university students as well as a broader audience, helping foster a culture of open discussion.
Of course, these strategies come with some risk. The West must be aware its efforts might be perceived as interference by the Chinese government. It is essential to take a balanced approach, aimed at building relationships based on mutual trust. Western companies must be ready to respond to and challenge human rights violations in their business relationships. Additionally, while promoting investments and cultural exchanges, it is crucial to maintain constant vigilance over events in China. Companies must be prepared to carefully assess their operations in the country and ensure they are not contributing to oppressive practices.
Investing in China’s future through trade and education is both an economic opportunity and a step toward a more open and dynamic global society. The West must act with wisdom, prudence, and determination to seize these opportunities.
Gaetano Masciullo is an Italian author and a writing fellow with Young Voices Europe. Gaetano writes regularly for Italian media outlets including L’Opinione della Libertà, L’Identità, and Radio Libertà.