Dr. Reza Hasmath is a full professor of political science at the University of Alberta and the 2025 Fulbright Research Chair in Public Diplomacy at the University of Southern California. His research focuses on ethnic minorities in global contexts, state-society relationships in China, and more. The Chinese Citizens’ Global Perception Surveys (CCGPS), a recent social survey he conducted in China, examines Chinese public views on China’s current relations with major global actors and their relationship with China.
Despite domestic challenges such as economic slowdown, weak consumer spending, and youth unemployment, Chinese citizens still remain interested in contributing to global affairs. In your opinion, what factors contribute to this outlook?
Chinese citizens’ interest in contributing to global affairs, despite the challenges mentioned, can be attributed to several key factors.
First, China has long emphasized its global role and influence. The government, media and educational curriculum have frequently highlighted China’s achievements and contributions to international issues, fostering national pride and a sense of responsibility among its citizens. Additionally, China’s rapid economic growth and development over the past few decades, despite the (relatively speaking) recent slowdown, have instilled confidence and optimism in its people, who believe their nation can significantly shape global policies and decisions.
Particular focus should be given to the younger generation in China: They are more globally connected and aware than ever, thanks to the internet and social media. Many young Chinese citizens have had the opportunity to study and/or travel abroad, exposing them to different cultures and perspectives. This exposure has broadened their horizons and heightened their awareness of global issues, making them more inclined to contribute to global affairs. Despite domestic challenges, these factors collectively drive Chinese citizens’ enduring interest in participating in and influencing global matters.
According to the survey, the United States is no longer the top destination for Chinese students to study abroad. And American student enrollment in China remains low. In the current Trump Administration, will the student exchanges become even more difficult? What can both countries do to strengthen people to people ties?
The current Trump administration’s policies have indeed made student exchanges more challenging. Increased scrutiny and tighter visa regulations have created additional hurdles for international students, including those from China. These measures, aimed at enhancing national security, have inadvertently complicated the process of studying abroad, leading to a decline in the number of Chinese students choosing the U.S. as their preferred destination.
To strengthen people to people ties, both nations can focus on enhancing cultural, educational and scientific exchanges; ironically, akin to the program that I am currently participating in – the Fulbright US-Canada program, where I am the 2025 Fulbright Research Chair in Public Diplomacy at USC. Expanding such initiatives, promoting collaborative research projects (albeit more difficult in STEM subjects due to heightened security concerns), and encouraging student and faculty exchanges can help rebuild trust and cooperation between the U.S. and China. Additionally, leveraging social media and digital platforms to facilitate virtual exchanges and dialogues can bridge the gap created by physical distance and policy barriers.
Note, findings from the survey can be found here.
It’s always challenging to conduct social surveys in China, especially on politically sensitive topics. What methodologies did you use while conducting this survey in China? How did you ensure that respondents’ answers genuinely reflected their views?
Conducting social surveys in China, especially on sensitive topics, demands a meticulous and thoughtful approach to safeguard data integrity and protect respondents. By ensuring anonymity and confidentiality, respondents were assured their identities and answers remained private. To further enhance their protection, I employed randomized response techniques, allowing individuals to answer sensitive questions while maintaining their privacy. This method significantly reduces response bias, as respondents do not fear potential repercussions. Essentially, I aimed to create a safe and comfortable environment where people felt free to express their “true” sentiments, resulting in more accurate and reliable survey results. This is not to mention there are statistical techniques one can employ to verify the veracity of the patterns observed.
What are the differences between the U.S. and China on the ideas of peacekeeping?
This is the subject of a paper I am currently writing. In brief, the United States and China have distinct approaches to peacekeeping. It is largely a product of varying priorities.
The U.S. has historically been cautious about participating in peacekeeping operations, often preferring to lead its own initiatives or support through other means. This stance is partly due to concerns about the effectiveness and accountability of UN peacekeeping missions, as well as a desire to maintain control over its military engagements. This stance is notably pronounced and visible with the current U.S. administration.
In contrast, China has become increasingly active in UN peacekeeping, viewing it as a way to demonstrate its commitment to global stability and enhance its international image as a responsible ‘great power’. China’s involvement in peacekeeping is driven by its aspiration to be seen as a key player in global affairs, while the U.S. focuses more on leveraging its military and diplomatic power to address conflicts directly.
In many respects, this divergence is influenced by their respective historical experiences and roles in global governance. While the U.S. emphasizes its non-UN peace operations, China highlights its contributions to UN missions, showcasing its willingness to collaborate with the international community.
The US’s position will impact Chinese public opinion on Taiwan conflicts. Do you think Chinese citizens’ views on the Taiwan issue, in turn, influence the U.S. actions? If so, how?
This is a tricky question. Chinese citizens’ views on the Taiwan issue could potentially influence U.S. actions, albeit indirectly.
If we assume that U.S. policymakers consider public sentiment in China as part of their broader geopolitical assessments, then there could be an impact. For example, when Chinese public opinion on Taiwan becomes particularly strong, vocal, or aggressive, it can signal to the U.S. the potential for heightened tensions or even conflict. In such a scenario, U.S. policymakers might face pressure from their constituents to take a firmer stance in defense of Taiwan. This dynamic can lead to a more assertive U.S. policy, aimed at countering perceived Chinese aggression and demonstrating a commitment to defending democratic values and regional stability.
In this way, Chinese public opinion on Taiwan can indirectly shape U.S. actions by influencing both strategic calculations and domestic political considerations.
Your survey shows that Chinese citizens are more likely to rely on social media to learn about global jurisdictions. Given recent data privacy and national security concerns, how can foreign countries, especially the U.S., use social media to influence Chinese perceptions and build trust?
This is another tricky question, especially given the sensitivities in U.S. and China regarding data and security.
Broadly speaking, to influence Chinese perceptions and build trust using social media, foreign actors should adopt a strategic and transparent approach. They should prioritize creating content that resonates with Chinese citizens’ interests and values while promoting mutual understanding and respect. By sharing stories that highlight commonalities and positive aspects of bilateral relations (of which there are many!), they can foster a sense of goodwill and cooperation. Additionally, leveraging popular Chinese social media platforms, such as WeChat and Weibo, can help ensure their message reaches a wider audience. Collaborating with local influencers and opinion leaders who have established trust with their followers can also amplify their message and enhance credibility.
