Enabling Pariahs

Abstract

China’s economic size and authoritarian system allow it to “enable” pariah states’ violations of international norms in Myanmar (genocide and military coup), North Korea (nuclear missile development), and Russia (unprovoked invasion of a neighboring state). The Xi Jinping leadership not only advances national interests—involving trade, investment, energy supplies, and strategic access—but also aims to counter perceived threats to and constraints on the Chinese Communist Party, weaken its American superpower rival, and reshape the international order. Beijing’s relations with Myanmar, North Korea, and Russia exhibit three enabling mechanisms: economic sanctions busting; diplomatic coordination at the United Nations; and presenting alternative narratives via state-controlled media. Although China’s strategy is costly and has produced mixed geopolitical gains, it appears focused on the long term. In response, the United States and its partners are coordinating international law enforcement, strengthening institutional cooperation, and combating authoritarian informational campaigns.