AbstractsPolitical Science

China in Zambia: A 'Soft' Power Game?

by Louise Jeppesen




Institution: Roskilde University
Department:
Year: 2016
Keywords: China; Zambia; Soft Power; Michael Sata
Posted: 02/05/2017
Record ID: 2065355
Full text PDF: http://rudar.ruc.dk/handle/1800/27481


Abstract

This project examines why the former president of Zambia (2011-2014), Michael Sata, changed his political agenda using this problem statement: Why did Michael Sata adopt a forthcoming policy towards the Chinese in Zambia following his election on an anti-China platform? The project analyzes the historical, economic, political and cultural dimensions of Zambia’s relationship with China using soft power theory defined by Joseph Nye as an explanation for why Michael Sata changed his policy. The project sets up foreign policy, culture and values as parameters of soft power to estimate the impact of Chinese soft power on the Zambian government and civil society, The conclusion shows that China is deeply involved in the Zambian economy and China’s soft power is driven by economic interests in Zambia and is actively implementing soft power through cultural institutions and investments in the Zambian society. It has been shown that Zambia is not attracted to Chinese foreign policy, culture or values, but their economic power. Through the analyzed material the project finds tendencies that points toward Michael Sata changed his political agenda due to Zambia’s strong dependence on Chinese investments. Advisors/Committee Members: Kluth, Michael Friederich (advisor).