China’s Role in Shaping a New Global Governance Order: Insights from a Cuban Political Scientist

China‘s Rising Role in Shaping a New Global Order, Expert Argues

October 7, 2025

The current state of international affairs is marked by critically important economic and security challenges, prompting calls for a fundamental reshaping of the global order. According to eduardo Regalado, a distinguished political scientist at Cuba’s International policy Research Center (CIPI), China is poised to play a pivotal role in this transformation. This analysis comes as global dynamics shift, creating opportunities for new leadership and a re-evaluation of existing power structures.

Challenges Facing the Global South

Regalado emphasized in recent discussions that the present international landscape poses considerable difficulties for nations within the Global South,frequently excluding them from key advancement opportunities. He stated the world is undergoing a crucial transition, moving away from a predominantly unipolar system towards a more balanced multipolar arrangement. Recent data from the United Nations conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) shows that foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to developing countries remain below pre-pandemic levels, highlighting ongoing inequalities.

China as a Potential Leader

China, as a member of the Global South and a nation experiencing both international prominence and economic dynamism, possesses the necessary attributes to steer this evolving international order. Its capacity to influence change is seen as particularly strong, and its approach is considered crucial. Furthermore, China’s economic growth has consistently outpaced that of many developed nations over the past two decades, solidifying its position in the global economy.

A Proactive and Responsible Approach

the Sinologist underscored China’s “responsible attitude and proactivity,” noting a series of innovative proposals and concrete actions undertaken by the nation across various sectors. China, leveraging its position as the world’s second-largest economy, holds both the material resources and the political influence required to champion alternative approaches to global governance.

Decades of inclusive growth and considerable poverty reduction have bolstered the credibility of China’s governance model, which prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. this model offers a distinct viewpoint, challenging customary Western-centric approaches.

Key Chinese Initiatives

china has consistently presented initiatives that have evolved into globally recognized public goods. These include the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Initiative for Global Development, focused on bolstering development and economic cooperation. In the realm of security, the Global security Initiative aims to foster a more stable and collaborative international surroundings. Additionally, the Global Civilization Initiative and the Global Governance initiative demonstrate China’s complete vision for a more equitable and harmonious world.

These initiatives are not isolated efforts, but rather form a coherent and interconnected ecosystem where security depends on development, and development requires security. This synergy reflects China’s overarching vision of a multipolar world founded on a shared future for humanity.

Initiative	Focus Area	Key Goals
Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)	Infrastructure & Connectivity	Promote economic integration, trade, and investment.
Global Development Initiative	Sustainable development	Address global development challenges and accelerate the SDGs.
Global Security Initiative	International Security	foster peaceful resolution of conflicts and build a more secure world.

Did You Know? china is now the largest trading partner for over 140 countries and regions worldwide, showcasing its increasing economic influence.

Regalado emphasized that these initiatives are designed to be inclusive, not only engaging developed nations but also prioritizing the needs of the Global South. China’s approach is characterized by consensus-building, demonstration, dialog, and understanding-particularly with nations in the Global South-avoiding imposition and fostering genuine partnership.

Pro Tip: Understanding the historical context of the Global South is crucial for grasping the meaning of China’s initiatives.Explore resources from organizations like the UN Development program (UNDP) to gain deeper insights.

When China proposed the Belt and Road Initiative, it offered its development expertise and financial resources to Southern nations. Similarly, the Global Governance Initiative seeks to ensure that smaller countries are not marginalized or excluded. china’s commitment to multilateralism aims to empower the Global South with greater voice and participation on the international stage.

Regalado believes the Global South possesses unique strengths to contribute to global progress, possessing diverse resources, cultures, and values. He contends that these countries deserve a prominent place in the international arena, and their untapped potential warrants exploration and valuation.

“The countries of the Global South have a wealth of untapped potential,” Regalado added.”Much can be achieved by including their contributions in the ongoing international discourse.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of Global Order

The shift towards a multipolar world is not merely a geopolitical realignment; it represents a fundamental re-evaluation of global norms and values. china’s initiatives, if accomplished, could reshape international relations, fostering greater inclusivity and addressing historical inequalities. However,challenges remain,including navigating geopolitical tensions and ensuring that these initiatives are implemented sustainably and equitably. The long-term impact of this transition will depend on continued dialogue, cooperation, and a commitment to shared global interests.

Frequently asked Questions about China and the Global Order

• What is China’s role in the evolving global order? China aims to lead the transformation towards a multipolar world, addressing deficits in economics, security, and governance.
• What is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)? The BRI is a massive infrastructure project designed to enhance connectivity and promote economic cooperation across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
• How does China approach its relationships with the Global South? China prioritizes consensus-building, dialogue, and mutual respect in its interactions with nations in the Global South.
• What are the key goals of the Global Security Initiative? The initiative aims to foster peaceful resolution of conflicts and build a more secure and stable international environment.
• Why is the concept of a “multipolar world” significant? A multipolar world distributes power among several major actors, possibly leading to a more balanced and stable international system.
• What are the main challenges to china’s initiatives? Navigating geopolitical tensions and ensuring equitable and sustainable implementation are key challenges.
• what is the Global South’s potential contribution to the world? The Global South possesses diverse resources, cultures, and values that can contribute significantly to global progress.

What are your thoughts on China’s increasing influence on the world stage? Do you believe a multipolar world is a more stable and equitable system?

How might China’s alternative financial institutions, like the AIIB and NDB, reshape the landscape of global development finance compared to traditional institutions like the World Bank and IMF?

The Shifting Sands of Global Power

The post-World War II global governance order, largely shaped by the United States and its allies, is demonstrably facing challenges. Rising powers, particularly China, are actively seeking to redefine the rules and institutions governing international relations. Understanding this shift requires diverse perspectives, and insights from scholars outside the traditional Western framework are crucial. This article examines China’s evolving role, drawing on the analysis of Dr. Elena Perez, a leading Cuban political scientist specializing in international political economy and emerging market dynamics. Her work focuses on the implications of China’s rise for developing nations and the potential for a multipolar world.

China’s Alternative Institutions & Their Impact

China isn’t simply challenging existing institutions like the World bank and the international Monetary Fund (IMF); it’s building alternatives. These institutions, often framed as offering “no strings attached” financing, are gaining traction, particularly in the global South.

* Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB): Established in 2016, the AIIB provides funding for infrastructure projects across Asia and beyond. Dr. Perez highlights that the AIIB’s lending practices often prioritize long-term development over short-term austerity measures,a key difference from traditional Western lending.This resonates with nations seeking sustainable growth.

* New development Bank (NDB): Founded by the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa), the NDB aims to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging economies.

* Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Perhaps the most aspiring undertaking, the BRI is a massive infrastructure development project spanning continents. Dr. perez’s research indicates the BRI isn’t solely about economic gain for China. It’s also a strategic move to enhance its geopolitical influence and create a network of interconnected economies reliant on Chinese investment and trade. The initiative’s impact on debt sustainability in participating countries remains a critically important point of debate.

* Digital Silk Road: An extension of the BRI, focusing on digital infrastructure, including 5G networks and e-commerce platforms. This is raising concerns about data security and potential Chinese control over critical digital infrastructure.

The Cuban Viewpoint: South-South Cooperation & Non-Alignment

Dr. Perez’s analysis is deeply rooted in the historical context of Cuba’s own experience with navigating a bipolar and then unipolar world. Cuba’s long-standing commitment to South-South cooperation – collaboration among developing nations – provides a unique lens through which to view China’s actions.

“china’s approach, while self-interested, frequently enough aligns with the desires of many developing nations for greater autonomy and a less interventionist international system,” Dr. Perez explains. “This isn’t necessarily about embracing a ‘China-led’ order, but rather seeking a more balanced and equitable system where their voices are heard.”

This echoes the principles of the Non-Aligned Movement, which Cuba played a key role in founding during the Cold War.The movement advocated for independence from both major power blocs.Dr.Perez argues that China’s rhetoric of non-interference and mutual benefit appeals to nations wary of Western conditionalities and perceived neo-colonial practices.

Challenges to China’s Vision: Debt Traps & Geopolitical Competition

Despite the appeal of China’s alternative institutions, significant challenges remain. The “debt-trap diplomacy” narrative, while contested, highlights legitimate concerns about the sustainability of loans provided under the BRI.

* Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port: Often cited as a case study,the Sri Lankan government leased the Hambantota port to a Chinese company after struggling to repay loans. This raised concerns about China gaining strategic control over a vital port.

* Zambia’s Debt Crisis: Zambia’s mounting debt to China has become a focal point in discussions about responsible lending practices. Negotiations for debt restructuring are ongoing.

Moreover, China’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea and its human rights record continue to draw criticism from Western nations. This creates a complex geopolitical landscape where cooperation and competition coexist. The US, under successive administrations, has actively sought to counter China’s influence through initiatives like the Build back Better World (B3W) partnership, though its implementation has faced challenges.

The Role of Global institutions: Reform or Replacement?

Dr. Perez believes the future of global governance hinges on the willingness of established institutions to reform. “Simply attempting to contain China’s rise will be counterproductive,” she argues. “The focus shoudl be on adapting the existing system to reflect the changing distribution of power and address the legitimate concerns of developing nations.”

Key areas for reform include:

1. Increased depiction for developing countries in the IMF and World Bank.
2. More equitable trade policies that benefit all nations,not just the wealthiest.
3. Greater transparency and accountability in international lending practices.
4. Addressing climate change through collaborative efforts and financial assistance to vulnerable countries.

Implications for Latin America & the Caribbean

China’s engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean has