China
Area Studies Make Headway in China’s Educational Institutions
Area studies in China have evolved in three waves, expanding rapidly since the 2010s due to Xi Jinping’s foreign policy. While promoting knowledge, concerns persist about state influence and ideological agendas.
Evolution of Area Studies in China
Area studies in China have experienced three significant waves of development, particularly gaining momentum since the 2010s. This surge is closely linked to President Xi Jinping’s foreign policy and China’s global ambitions. While these studies serve strategic purposes—such as supporting the Belt and Road Initiative—they also indicate a broader engagement with international scholarship. However, concerns persist regarding the independence of knowledge production from state-driven ideologies.
The Historical Context
In the West, area studies evolved from imperial pursuits and became institutionalized post-World War II, initially driven by national security concerns. Over the years, critical and postcolonial views emerged within the field. In contrast, China’s institutionalization of area studies is a more recent phenomenon, propelled by its geopolitical ascent and foreign policy strategies, raising questions about the future direction of area studies in China.
Recent Developments
The third wave of area studies revitalization began after China became the world’s second-largest economy in 2010. Earlier phases were heavily influenced by state interests and economic needs. The Ministry of Education, in alignment with Xi Jinping’s "New Era," has actively promoted the establishment of regional study bases. This initiative aims to enhance China’s influence globally while meeting central decision-making needs, reflecting a strategic vision for China’s role in world affairs.
Source : Area studies gain ground in China’s educational institutions
