China's Rise and Europe's Fall: Time to Start Worrying

Abstract

Leaders in Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia are placed in front of what appears to be a very simple decision. Why spend time and effort in quarrels over human rights and good governance, if there is a much easier option at their disposal with results available right away? More and more countries are now keen on belonging to the Chinese sphere of soft power influence, which goes far beyond the quest for natural resources. The author presents reasons why Europe and indeed the US should be worried about their political and cultural hegemony. The author even goes as far as warning against another Cold War rivalry between the West and China. China is on the move, acting. The author concludes by suggesting that the EU should get rid of its normative leadership illusions and do the same.