Competing without Fighting: China's Strategy of Political Warfare

China is conducting an unprecedented campaign below the threshold of armed conflict to expand the influence of the Chinese Communist Party and weaken the United States and its partners. This CSIS report offers one of the most comprehensive analyses to date of Chinese political warfare activities and examines Chinas main actions, primary goals, and options for the United States and its partners.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 145 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

China is embarking on an extraordinary campaign that falls below the threshold of armed conflict, yet aims to significantly expand the influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and undermine the United States and its allies. The magnitude of China's activities within the United States is unparalleled, marking a significant escalation in its political warfare tactics. This comprehensive CSIS report provides one of the most thorough examinations to date of Chinese political warfare activities, delving into the primary actions, overarching goals, and potential responses available to the United States and its partners.

China's campaign to expand its influence involves a multifaceted approach. It encompasses a range of activities, including economic coercion, political manipulation, cyber operations, and military exercises. Through these means, China seeks to erode US and allied institutions, undermine their political stability, and challenge their economic and military dominance.

One of the central objectives of China's political warfare is to undermine the legitimacy and authority of the United States and its democratic allies. This is achieved by spreading misinformation, promoting anti-American sentiment, and fostering divisions within societies. China also uses its economic power to pressure countries into adopting policies that align with its interests, often at the expense of their own national sovereignty.

In the United States, China's activities have been particularly pronounced. The country has invested heavily in infrastructure projects, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, that aim to extend its economic and political reach throughout Asia and Europe. China has also engaged in a range of cyber operations, including hacking and data theft, to gain access to sensitive US information and undermine its government and military capabilities.

To address these challenges, the United States and its allies need to adopt a comprehensive and coordinated approach. This includes strengthening cybersecurity measures, promoting democratic values and institutions, and engaging in diplomatic dialogue to address regional and global tensions. It is also important to recognize that China's political warfare is not a standalone effort but part of a broader strategy aimed at achieving its national interests.

In conclusion, China's unprecedented campaign to expand its influence falls below the threshold of armed conflict, yet poses significant challenges to the United States and its allies. The scale and scope of China's activities in the United States are unparalleled, highlighting the need for a robust and coordinated response. By adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses economic coercion, political manipulation, cyber operations, and military exercises, the United States and its partners can work to mitigate the risks posed by China's political warfare and promote a more stable and prosperous global order.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 215 x 279 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538170700