Now that
is becoming a world power, it is beginning to recognize the importance of its global image and the need to enhance its “soft power.” It is tracking public opinion polls worldwide and investing huge amounts into expanding its global cultural footprint, “external propaganda work” and public diplomacy. Unfortunately for China, that’s not enough.While pockets of positive views regarding China can be found around the world, public opinion surveys from the Pew Research Center’s Global Attitudes Project and the BBC reveal that China’s image ranges between mixed and poor. And the negative view is expanding: for almost a decade, European public opinion toward China has been the most negative in the world, but that is now matched in America and Asia.
Commentary
Op-edFalling Out of Love With China
David Shambaugh
David Shambaugh
Gaston Sigur Professor of Asian Studies, Political Science & International Affairs; Director of the China Policy Program
- Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University
March 18, 2013