Asia-related activities of Bertelsmann Stiftung and insights into important developments in the region.

 
Landkarte mit China Containern

20th anniversary of China’s WTO accession: How should the EU deal with the new superpower?

December 11, 2021 marked the twentieth anniversary of China’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Economic relations between the EU and China have intensified as a result of China’s integration in the multilateral trading system – by and large to mutual benefit. Going forward, however, relations with China will become much more challenging for the EU. Consistent and concerted action by Brussels is therefore more necessary than ever. Read more here.

Die Flagge Chinas weht im Wind

GED Explains: The Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party – what is it and why should we care?

From November 8-11, the 19th Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) held its 6th plenary session in Beijing. In this edition of GED Explains, we look at the role of this Committee and its place in Chinese politics. Then we give three reasons why this is of significance well beyond China. Read more here.

 
Schachbrett

Welcome to the Party maintaining a one-party state in China

This infographic offers a preview of the Bertelsmann Foundation's upcoming publication, Graphic Images Volume II, from its Disrupting Democracy series. This compilation of data visualizations examines the tactics used by regional powers - Russia, China and Iran - to influence their respective neighborhoods. Since coming to power in 1949, the Chinese Communist Party has dominated the political landscape. While there are eight other non-communist parties in the country, it is effectively a one-party state. Despite attempts in the past two decades to experiment with "democracy" at the local level, no progress has been made on creating a multi-party system. This infographic presents fourteen years of data, compiled by the Bertelsmann Transformation Index, to show just how entrenched the status quo is in Beijing. Read more here.

Baum & Sterne

Happy Holidays and Season's Greetings

We thank you for your continued interest and wish you Happy Holidays and a Good Start to the New Year. Season's Greetings! Your Asia Update Team