Western democracies face Chinese power push

Significance

This is just the latest in a spate of recent claims in Western countries that Chinese 'influence' threatens their sovereignty and democratic institutions.

Impacts

• Fundamental political differences could soon play a much greater role in Beijing's relations between Western governments.
• If China’s economy falters, the incentive will weaken for governments and others in the West to appease Beijing.
• Beijing shows little adroitness at taking action needed to dispel negative perceptions even where these are exaggerated.