The China we think we know is, to a large extent, a China constructed by others. In this essay, I argue that the two dominant images of the country, one produced by Western centres of power, the other by Beijing's official narrative, are insufficient for those who need to understand China from outside both orbits. The third China is a shift in observational position: China as seen by the rest of the world, and in particular by the Global South and the Lusophone world.

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The dominant images of China, one produced by Western centres of power, the other by Beijing's official narrative, are insufficient for those who need to understand the country outside both orbits. The third China is a shift in observational position.

Opinion

Two airplanes parked on the tarmac at an airport.

Declan Sun

An independent network dedicated to qualified debate and the study of China in the Lusophone world. Co-founded in 2020 and led institutionally for five years, it brings together professionals, researchers and students with an interest in Chinese studies.

The Construction of the Third China