China and global governance: An outsider’s perspectives

The first thing that comes to mind when anyone thinks about China is its scale; scale of ambition, scale of achievement and scale of influence. Few countries have transformed themselves as dramatically or shaped global affairs as profoundly in the past four decades. That reality struck me again when I attended the commissioning of new […]

The first thing that comes to mind when anyone thinks about China is its scale; scale of ambition, scale of achievement and scale of influence. Few countries have transformed themselves as dramatically or shaped global affairs as profoundly in the past four decades.

That reality struck me again when I attended the commissioning of new ECOWAS Headquarters, Abuja, a magnificent China-Aid Project. Standing before the imposing structure, I saw more than an architectural landmark. I saw a symbol of China’s growing role in global governance, diplomacy and development.

Today many have their first glimpse of China through the lenses of the media and the pages of books. One appreciates the country’s role in global politics especially reading about its revered leader, Mao Zedong, who is credited with laying the foundation for the China economic growth, transforming from a struggling economy into a global power through the leadership of the Chinese Communist from a Party.

By the time one has contact with its people, most probably through movies, magazines and interactions with Chinese nationals one is left with the impression that the Chinese are highly innovative and technologically driven people. It will also be glaring that they have built an efficient social and justice system while preserving their heritage and values, many of which have been introduced to other parts of the world.

The growing popularity of Chinese cuisine and traditional attire in Nigeria reflected The increasing number of Chinese restaurants and cultural exchange, has further strengthened my interest in learning about the world’s most populous nation.
Over the years, China has continued to evolve. Beyond the impressions formed through films and literature, if one closely followed global developments one will come to see China as a country poised to play an even more strategic role in shaping the future international order.
When China released it White Paper on Global Governance, it was generally viewed it as a clear indication that the country is seeking to assume a more prominent role in international affairs. Considering its vast human and natural resources, coupled with its remarkable advances in science, technology and industrial development, it is understandable why China seeks a stronger voice in global governance.
The White Paper outlines principles centred on sovereign equality, respect for international law, inclusive global cooperation, people-centre development and practical action over rhetoric. These principles suggest China’s desire to promote a more balanced and equitable international system. For many people in developing countries, this vision holds significant appeal.
During the COVID-19, pandemic, for example, China supplied billions of vaccine doses to countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America without attaching political conditions to aid. This gesture earned considerable goodwill among many developing nations and demonstrated China’s willingness to contribute to global public health.
Equally impressive was China’s rapid response to the pandemic at home. As many countries went on their knees on the heavy yoke of the pandemic, the speed with which China constructed medical facilities and mobilised resources to contain the outbreak reflected remarkable planning, organization and national resolve. It left a lasting impression on me about the people who confront challenges with determination and resilience.
Another issue is China’s manufacturing strength. Home to thousands of factories, industries and technology companies, the country continues to produce globally recognised products while investing heavily in research, innovation and industrial development.
China has supported development projects in many countries, often focusing on infrastructure, trade and investment. A typical example is the railway infrastructure being constructed across Nigeria. This approach has made it an attractive development partner for many nations.
For example, expanding the footprint of Chinese technology, investment and products across the Africa continent is not only rejuvenating commerce or trade, but also offering the continent a viable alternative to traditional Western-led models of economic cooperation and development.
One aspect of China that particularly fascinates many is how it manages a population of more than 1.4 billion people. One often wonders how such a large population is accommodated through an efficient transportation system, housing, healthcare and other public services. Countries with populations of fewer than 10 million still struggle to provide these services effectively, understanding China’s approach would offer valuable lessons.
China is also increasingly emerging as a pacesetter in the regulation of social media and online content. Its approach to protecting young people from harmful influences while maintaining order in the digital space is commendable. Although opinions differ on these policies, they reflect the country’s unique governance model and it emphasises on social stability.
For years, many of China’s digital regulations were met with scepticism and criticism in parts of the West. However, growing concerns over the impact of social media on children and teenagers have prompted several countries, including European countries including Australia, United Kingdom, Canada, France, Denmark and Poland, to reconsider aspects of online regulation. Measures such as restrictions, parental controls, limiting on excessive screen time and safeguards against cyberbullying and online exploitation are increasingly finding support among policymakers.
While these approaches differ significantly from China’s broader regulatory framework, they suggest a growing recognition that protecting young people in the digital age may require more active government intervention than was previously accepted.
As China’s influence in global affairs continues to expand, it is understandable why so many people are eager to visit the country, experience its rich culture and better understand a nation whose role in shaping global governance is becoming increasingly significant.

For me, China represents not only economic and technological advancement but also an evolving model of governance whose ideas and policies deserve careful study and thoughtful engagement.

Amina can be reached via [email protected]