‘Your China questions answered’ is a video series in which experts from the ReConnect China consortium answer questions from the public. With short, accessible videos, this series aims to increase public knowledge on China in Europe. The videos are made by the Clingendael Institute. The opinions expressed in the videos are those of the experts alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
How China wants to change the world?
How does China envision its hegemony in a new world order? In this video, experts Ties Dams (Clingendael Institute) and Beatrice Gallelli (IAI) answer a question by Chris Peeters. They explain that, in China’s view, the current world order is dominated by the West. China’s government uses its growing international status to challenge this. For example, by redefining concepts like human rights, through the promotion of international organisations like the BRICS, and through military means. This matters for Europe too. Europe’s challenge is to craft a compelling, unified narrative to stay relevant in this shifting geopolitical landscape.
Watch the video: How China wants to change the world
📺 This is the first video in the ‘Your China questions answered’ series. Watch the full series here: Your China Questions Answered – YouTube
Our dependence on China for critical raw materials
How can Europe reduce reliance on Chinese rare earths? In this video, experts Raoul Bunskoek (Clingendael Institute) and John Seaman (Ifri) answer a question by Peter J. Caroll. They explain what critical raw materials and rare minerals are, and why they are important. China has a dominant position in the value chain, controlling around 70% of global processing for the minerals essential to the digital and green transitions. While the EU aims to reduce this reliance to 65% by 2030, efforts are complicated by environmental concerns and shifting future material needs. The core challenge: rebuilding strategic capacity in a sector that Europe has long overlooked.
Watch the video: Critical minerals: Why China holds the cards in rare earths
📺 This is the second video in the ‘Your China questions answered’ series. Watch the full series here: Your China Questions Answered – YouTube
How can we assess China’s self-image as a peacemaker in the Russia-Ukraine war?
In this video, experts Kaspar Pucek (Clingendael Institute) and Patrik Andersson (Swedish National China Centre) answer a question by Ines Barkidija. They explain that China views the war through a geopolitical lens. Although China claims neutrality, its rhetoric and actions clearly lean toward Russia. For example, the Chinese government refers to a ‘Ukraine crisis’, but avoids calling it a war or a Russian invasion. Furthermore, high-level contact, trade, and dual-use exports between Russia and China increased, as well as international cooperation. However, Beijing stops short of full military backing, and speaks out against nuclear escalation.
Watch the video: Why China doesn’t want Russia to lose in Ukraine – YouTube
📺 This is the third video in the ‘Your China questions answered’ series. Watch the full series here: Your China Questions Answered – YouTube