China’s influence in Northern Europe
By Oscar Shao
China is no longer the same developing country, and the EU is realizing this as well. Chinese influence has also started to spread throughout the globe, reaching most of the global south and Europe. Most of the current research has focused on Chinese influence in Africa or Central and East European countries, this policy briefs attempts to identify Chinese influence in Northern Europe instead. While much of the region remains sceptical and critical towards China, the threat that China poses on these countries is still present. China also seems to be changing its tactics after COVID, realizing that ‘wolf warrior’ diplomacy may not be viable, if it ever was. China will likely revert to more covert tactics to try and influence countries abroad, by making use of its economic power, disinformation campaigns, and attempts to silence individuals and media. This requires a more updated strategies by countries in Northern Europe. The Nordics and the Baltics have been updating their China policies in recent years, but to protect themselves from Chinese influence requires further understanding of China. This policy brief will introduce and summarize some of the Chinese influences that have been used in the region, it will also suggest possible policies in order to combat these influences. Dealing with Chinese influence need to not only be reactive, but preventive as well.
Download the latest BSR Policy Briefing: BSR Policy Briefing 1_2024 (pdf) (351.5 KB)
