European Think-tank Network on China (ETNC)

The Swedish National China Centre at Utrikespolitiska institutet is honored to have been entrusted with the role of lead editor and publisher of this year’s report from the European Think-tank Network on China (ETNC), titled “National Perspectives on Europe’s De-risking from China.” The report has now been published!    The report examines the viewpoints of 21 EU member states and the United Kingdom on “de-risking,” as well as the practical steps they have taken towards implementing this much-discussed policy. It highlights the diversity of national approaches to Europe’s de-risking agenda, showcases countries’ internal debates (or lack thereof), highlights common concerns and risks associated with China, tracks de-risking measures adopted at the national level, and discusses potential barriers to Europe’s de-risking from China.    Access the report through the link below:  https://lnkd.in/dXmQ3Kaw

Last week the 2024 European Think-tank Network on China (ETNC) report was published. What are the main takeaways from the report? 📣 - The report examines the viewpoints of 21 EU member states and the United Kingdom on “de-risking,” as well as the practical steps they have taken towards implementing this much-discussed policy. - Since first proposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in March 2023, the concept of “de-risking” has become a significant focus for the EU in managing its relations with China. However, the interpretation and policy responses to de-risking vary across Europe, reflecting diverse national perspectives. - The extent to which de-risking is debated publicly varies across the 22 countries covered in the report. Overall, the rhetorical shift from decoupling to de-risking appears to have been embraced in many countries. - European countries have adopted different stances on de-risking, falling into categories such as early advocates, followers, cautious adopters, and opponents. - Some countries had already implemented measures to reduce China-related risks before the EU’s de-risking strategy was articulated and could be characterised as “early advocates”. A large group of countries align closely with the EU’s approach and could be called “endorsers” or “followers”. - Despite general support for de-risking, many countries are concerned that excessive measures could harm relations with China. These could be characterised as “cautious adopters”. Hungary stands out in its opposition to de-risking measures. - De-risking discussions are part of broader economic security conversations where China is one of many concerns, along with the United States and Russia. In several countries, reliance on Russia, especially for energy, is viewed as a more immediate concern, while China is seen as a long-term challenge. - Concerns about economic risks associated with China depend on the level of economic integration and the vulnerability of key sectors to Chinese industrial policies or economic coercion. - In sum, the views of EU countries on de-risking vary, reflecting different national priorities and concerns. While many countries support the EU’s approach to de-risking, the specific measures and their implementation may differ. - Overall, de-risking has been a developing approach in Europe for several years, championed by the European Commission as part of its broader economic security strategy. - While there are similarities in how de-risking is understood and applied, significant differences remain. An important test for the concept will arise in the wake of the 2024 elections to the European Parliament. Access the full report here: https://lnkd.in/dXmQ3Kaw