Perspective: China's Path to Global Security Leadership - The Global Security Initiative (GSI)

Since President Xi Jinping launched China’s Global Security Initiative (GSI) at the Boao Forum for Asia in April 2022 in Hainan Province, China has accelerated its role in international policing and security cooperation.

The GSI forms part of a broader reimagining of global order, accompanied by the Global Development Initiative (GDI) and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), aiming to create a “Community of Common Destiny for Mankind” (人类命运共同体). Through these initiatives, China aims to position itself as a leading advocate for global security reform, emphasizing a collaborative security model distinct from traditional Western approaches.

Building on the momentum of the initial launch of the GSI, China has been turning its policy vision into concrete initiatives. GSI focuses on enhancing global security through multilateral cooperation, addressing traditional and non-traditional security challenges, and promoting stability. Through bilateral partnerships, it is sharing its security models and technologies, promoting solutions that blend technological advancement with collaboration. This perspective shares some initial perspectives on China's approach.

Framework and Partnerships of the Global Security Initiative

The Global Security Initiative (GSI) advocates for a cooperative, multilateral security framework, with China actively participating in regional and global security dialogues. Through multilateral organizations such as the United Nations and ASEAN, as well as platforms like the China–Africa Peace and Security Forum and BRICS+, the GSI seeks to integrate Chinese security norms and practices into established mechanisms.

The GSI emphasizes non-interference and respect for sovereignty, reflecting China’s intent to shape international security frameworks in alignment with its strategic principles. Through tailored solutions, China aims to address the specific security needs of partner nations, supporting both local stability and the interest of its businesses and citizens abroad.

Engagement Across Public and Private Sectors: A Case Study in Policing and Surveillance and Their Drivers

China’s international policing efforts span both public and private sectors, involving government agencies like the Ministry of Public Security (MPS), which oversees national security and intelligence, as well as prominent Chinese technology firms. This public-private collaboration enables China to offer comprehensive security solutions—including facial recognition technology and police training programs—that align with the specific security priorities of its partner nations.

China’s growing involvement in global policing is driven by both “push” and “pull” factors. From China’s perspective, these partnerships serve to export Chinese security norms, establish it as a responsible global actor, and safeguard its overseas investments. Partner countries, particularly those in developing regions, often see Chinese technology as a cost-effective way to strengthen public security, with financial support from the Chinese government and access to advanced technology. For countries with limited resources or infrastructure, these partnerships provide critical support to address internal security challenges.

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"Push" and "Pull" Dynamics of China's Global Security Initiative (GSI)

China’s expanding role in international policing is driven by both internal motivations (“Push” factors) and external demands (“Pull” factors). This duality is essential to understanding how the GSI operates on the ground, often blending the priorities of Chinese policymakers with the immediate needs of partner countries.

Internal Motivations ("Push" Factors): At its core, the GSI represents China’s effort to export its security norms globally, presenting itself as a responsible actor in international governance. The drive to share its technologies and practices comes not only from a desire to position itself as a leader but also as a response to growing economic interests. Initiatives like the BRI have led to increased Chinese investments overseas, and ensuring the safety of these investments is paramount. This means engaging in policing and security to protect infrastructure projects and ensure the safety of Chinese nationals abroad.

• Exporting Security Norms: China aims to disseminate its security practices and norms globally, positioning itself as a leader in international security governance. This effort is part of the Global Security Initiative, which seeks to reform global security mechanisms and promote China's vision of security.
• Protecting Overseas Investments: With the expansion of initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, China has significant investments abroad. Ensuring the security of these investments and the safety of Chinese nationals overseas is a primary concern, motivating China to engage in international policing activities. 

External Demands ("Pull" Factors): For many partner countries, particularly in the developing world, China’s security model offers an attractive solution. Chinese surveillance systems, such as Huawei’s facial recognition technologies, provide effective and cost-efficient ways to address public safety needs. Nations struggling with internal security challenges often lack the infrastructure and financing to implement large-scale solutions. China’s ability to provide financial support, along with ready-to-use technologies, has positioned it as a partner of choice. In Kenya, for example, Huawei’s “Safe City” surveillance technology has reportedly helped reduce crime in Nairobi’s high-risk areas, offering a tangible improvement in urban safety. Such partnerships often receive positive reception from local authorities who prioritize stability, even if concerns around privacy and political overreach arise.

• Cost-Effective Security Solutions: Developing and emerging economies often seek affordable and effective security technologies. Chinese surveillance systems, known for their advanced capabilities and lower costs, are attractive options for these countries. 
• Financial Support: China frequently provides financing options to countries adopting its security technologies, making it easier for them to enhance their public security infrastructure.

However, these dynamics are not without controversy. In Italy, for instance, the Chinese-operated police centers led to an outcry over national sovereignty, resulting in the termination of such agreements. This illustrates the delicate balance China must maintain between offering solutions and respecting the boundaries of local governance, particularly in countries wary of external influence.

Technology and Surveillance: A Deeper Dive

A key pillar of the GSI is China’s emphasis on technological advancement in policing and surveillance—a realm where China has positioned itself at the cutting-edge of technological innovation. Chinese tech companies, such as Huawei and Hikvision, are crucial partners in deploying surveillance systems across multiple countries under the GSI umbrella. Their portfolios include advanced facial recognition, predictive algorithms with direct use cases for policing, and interconnected security systems that provide real-time data to both Chinese and local authorities.

The adoption of these technologies reflects China’s vision of a “smart” security model. The “Safe City” initiative in Nairobi and similar projects across Southeast Asia have led to more efficient crime detection and deterrence, allowing local law enforcement to leverage such cutting-edge AI technology for predictive policing. Yet, critics argue that these advancements come at a cost—primarily in the form of privacy and the potential for political misuse. In Cambodia, there have been allegations of surveillance overreach, with activists suggesting that the technology may be used to target dissent rather than purely for public safety.

This dual-use nature of technology, both for enhancing security and potentially stifling political opposition, adds complexity to how the GSI is perceived. Partner nations are often drawn to the immediacy and effectiveness of these technologies but must grapple with the trade-offs concerning civil liberties.

Criticisms and Alternative Perspectives

While China’s initiatives have been criticized for enabling political repression in some regions, proponents argue they contribute positively to security and stability, particularly in developing countries where public safety infrastructure is limited. A balanced view of the GSI could emphasize the broader socio-economic benefits and security improvements it aims to provide for partner countries. Indeed, positive examples of these impacts are evident across a variety of developing nations.

Since the GSI was introduced only in 2022, its long-term impacts are still emerging. Many projects now associated with the GSI, like Huawei’s "Safe City" initiatives, were implemented in various countries before the GSI’s formal establishment. While these projects were not originally initiated under this framework, they now align well with GSI objectives and could be seen as predecessors to its formal establishment.

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Großwald Curated: Impact and Success Stories of China’s Global Security Initiative (GSI)

China’s Global Security Initiative (GSI) has brought tangible security enhancements to regions often overlooked by traditional security frameworks:

1. Improving Public Safety: China’s GSI has had a transformative impact on public safety in multiple countries by providing advanced surveillance technology and law enforcement support. In Kenya, for example, Chinese surveillance systems, part of Huawei’s “Safe City” project, were integrated into Nairobi’s policing infrastructure, leading to a significant decline in crime in high-risk areas. By enhancing the operational capacity of local police and facilitating rapid response through interconnected systems, GSI-backed technologies have supported the Kenyan government’s goal of creating safer urban environments for residents and businesses alike.
2. Counter-Piracy in Strategic Maritime Corridors: China’s involvement in securing the Gulf of Guinea has helped address the persistent issue of piracy. By providing technical support and conducting joint patrols, the GSI has improved maritime safety, safeguarding key shipping lanes essential for regional trade and global commerce. These efforts filled crucial security gaps, benefiting both local economies and the international community.
3. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): China’s commitment to humanitarian aid, especially in the wake of natural disasters, has been a crucial element of the GSI. For example, following Cyclone Idai in Mozambique, Chinese security forces assisted local authorities with disaster relief operations. By providing logistical support, security coordination, and tech-driven monitoring systems, China’s rapid response helped expedite humanitarian aid distribution and restore order during a time of crisis. 
4. Empowering Local Capacity through Technological Training and Knowledge Transfer: A cornerstone of the GSI is its emphasis on capacity building through technology transfer. Chinese-led training programs have equipped law enforcement in various developing nations with critical skills in cybersecurity, digital forensics, and surveillance. In Southeast Asia, China’s collaboration with Cambodia has enhanced local security agencies' ability to independently address internal threats, fostering a self-sustaining security environment. This empowerment of local forces has improved local security and reduced dependence on costly external contractors, promoting self-reliant security frameworks.
5. Stabilizing Conflict-Prone Regions: China’s support in conflict-prone regions, such as parts of Central Asia, highlights GSI’s role in stabilizing fragile states. In Tajikistan, Chinese-backed border security projects have bolstered the country’s defenses, reducing illegal cross-border activities and enhancing regional security. By investing in both physical infrastructure and specialized police training, the GSI has provided stability in areas previously vulnerable to trafficking and insurgent activities, contributing to a more secure environment that supports long-term economic development.

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Großwald Curated: Challenges and Limitations of China's Global Security Initiative (GSI)

China’s international policing activities have gained traction, but there are challenges:

1. Domestic and Regional Reactions: Partnerships have faced opposition when perceived to undermine local security practices. For instance, after criticism from local communities, Fiji restructured its agreement with China, emphasizing differences in policing values. In Italy, the government terminated its policing arrangement with China amid concerns over Chinese-operated police centers within Italian borders. Such pushback can disrupt existing agreements, limit future partnerships, and damage China’s image as a cooperative security partner.
2. Great Power Dynamics: The GSI places China in an increasingly prominent role in global security but stops short of traditional “security guarantor” responsibilities like those of the U.S. Instead, China prefers to provide selective security support, viewing it as an effective niche in security diplomacy. By choosing a limited, selective security role, China avoids large-scale commitments but also forgoes the influence and strategic leverage that come with being a primary security guarantor. 
3. Multilateral Limitations: Although China has promoted policing cooperation through initiatives like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS+, most agreements remain bilateral, with limited success in expanding multilateral policing frameworks. High-level dialogues, such as those between China and Pacific Island nations, have gained some traction, but most cooperation remains regionally focused. Such reliance on bilateral agreements limits China’s ability to scale influence through broader multilateral frameworks, confining the reach and hindering the GSI to be established as a globally recognized security framework.

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China's Global Security Model: Will It Challenge the Western Norm?

China's Global Security Initiative is a daring effort to reshape international security in an age of deepening multipolarity. Thus, by using enhanced security technologies as well as bilateral policing partnerships and diplomatic engagements, China is creating the infrastructure for a new form of global security influence based on technological dominance and bespoke bilateral relations rather than via traditional military alliances. While its imprint can already be seen across the developing world where there is a high demand for affordable and ready-made security solutions, the GSI’s future prospects will ultimately hinge on how well China balances competing discourses of sovereignty, privacy and multilateralism. 

Especially in the parts of the world that traditional settings have ignored local aspirational needs, GSI is bound to shape global security norms as China advocates for a "Community of Common Destiny for Mankind." While it is uncertain if this model will take flight as a legitimate alternative to the Western method, it has certainly paved the way for new opportunities for delivering security in the 21st century under a model of mutual gain, development and localized solutions.

Sources: International Institute for Strategic Studies: “The Global Security Initiative: China’s International Policing Activities.” 2024, The Diplomat, Research Professional News, Handelsblatt, Brookings Institution, Interpol