Russia, China and the Revisionist Assault on the Western Liberal International Order

This book examines Russian and Chinese revisionism in the context of US and Western post-Cold War liberal international order-building and proposes a neoclassical realist model of international order building and contestation. It argues that states turn revisionist when the status quo threatens their vital security needs and they have the means to challenge it. The author calls for a policy of neo-containment to counter Moscow and Beijing's efforts to game and erode the international order.

Format: Hardback
Length: 458 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The book delves into the intricate dynamics of Russian and Chinese revisionism in the context of the US and Western post-Cold War liberal international order-building. It poses the compelling question of why both powers chose to adopt revisionist policies in the late 2000s. To answer this, the study develops a neoclassical realist model of international order building and contestation. It suggests that states resort to revisionism as a strategic choice when the existing international order poses a threat to their vital security needs, which encompass a wide range of dimensions, including territorial security, political stability, economic prosperity, cultural values, and ontological security.

In the case of Russia, the book argues that the country's revisionist tendencies emerged in response to the perceived encroachment of American influence and the erosion of its regional and global power. Russia's concerns were particularly acute in the post-Soviet era, as it sought to reassert its sovereignty and assert its role as a great power. The book explores the various strategies that Russia has employed, such as military interventions, economic sanctions, and political propaganda, to challenge the established order and promote its own interests.

On the other hand, China's revisionist policies are attributed to its growing economic and political assertiveness. The book highlights the country's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to expand China's influence through infrastructure development and trade partnerships across Asia and Africa. Additionally, China has been increasingly vocal in its criticism of Western policies, particularly those related to trade, human rights, and territorial disputes. The book examines the Chinese government's efforts to undermine the international order, such as its territorial claims in the South China Sea and its support for authoritarian regimes.

The book argues that the rise of revisionism in Russia and China is a significant challenge to the stability and order of the international system. It calls for a policy of neo-containment to counter the efforts of Moscow and Beijing to game and erode the international order. The author suggests that the US and its allies should engage in diplomatic and economic measures to isolate and pressure Russia and China, while also promoting regional cooperation and stability.

In conclusion, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of Russian and Chinese revisionism in the context of the US and Western post-Cold War liberal international order-building. It sheds light on the underlying factors that drive these powers' policies and offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that the international community faces in navigating the complex dynamics of the 21st century.

Weight: 734g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031186585
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023