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Ivo Ganchev

Queen Mary, University of London, School of Languages, Linguistics and Film, Faculty Member

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www.ivoganchev.com - Political scientist researching regional integration in the Global South, Chinese foreign policy + cross-paradigm IR theory. Founding Director of the Centre for Regional Integration. Writing/editing multiple books on Latin American regionalism. Formerly Adjunct Professor at Beijing Union University and Lecturer at Queen Mary University of London. Also corporate branding consultant to Forbes 500 companies: entry to China + internationalization. Vice chairman, Bulgaria-China Chamber of Commerce.
Address: www.ivoganchev.com

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University of Washington

Mehmet Serdar Çelik

Bandirma Onyedi Eylul University

European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS)

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Çağdaş Üngör

Marmara University

Sankhayan Mukherjee

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Papers by Ivo Ganchev

China and the BRI Ten Years on: Geopolitics and Development

Regional Policy Insights, 2024

In this article, Dr. Ivo Ganchev builds on his interview with Martin Zubko on the IR thinker podc... more In this article, Dr. Ivo Ganchev builds on his interview with Martin Zubko on the IR thinker podcast, exploring the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) a decade after its launch within the wider context of China's growing global ambitions. Initially launched as China's flagship infrastructure project, the BRI has become part of a larger strategic framework alongside the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). These initiatives signal China's shift toward a more comprehensive global leadership role, encompassing economic development, security, and cultural diplomacy. Drawing on Dr. Ganchev's research expertise and practical experience, this article examines the BRI's geopolitical significance, its economic impact, and challenges such as debt sustainability and transparency. It also investigates how the BRI intersects with other global initiatives like the EU's Global Gateway and multilateral platforms such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). This article argues that despite financial challenges, the BRI remains a foundational element of China's evolving global strategy, shedding light on China's role in shaping global governance.

Actions Speak Louder than Words: China’s Consultative Peacekeeping in Africa

Strategic Analysis, Sep 3, 2019

Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanat... more Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanations for China's increasingly assertive security policy. To avoid this pitfall, this article adopts a narrower focus on Chinese security policy towards Africa. It explores two contrasting cases, namely Sudan/South Sudan and Mali to demonstrate that China: a) pursues security engagement only after obtaining permission by relevant parties (UN; regional organizations; target state); b) favours peacekeeping (stability) over peacebuilding (arbitrary support for emerging regimes); c) strategically interweaves its economic goals and security policy strategy. The article thus re-conceptualizes China's new security policy towards Africa as 'consultative peacekeeping.'

Making the Case for a New Coherent Bulgarian Strategy towards China: A Practitioner's Analysis of Bilateral Political and Economic Relations (2015-2022)

The Dragon at the Gates of Europe: Chinese Presence in the Balkans and Central-Eastern Europe, 2023

This chapter analyzes the bilateral relations between Bulgaria and China from 2015 to 2022, focus... more This chapter analyzes the bilateral relations between Bulgaria and China from 2015 to 2022, focusing on political, trade and business (including investment) dimensions. The analysis of political relations begins by examining high-level dialogue, which has produced limited outcomes; a further discussion explores diplomatic relations between two countries and the activities of their respective embassies. The analysis of trade relations indicates that the most significant overall trends are a growing trade deficit for Bulgaria and an asymmetric product mix, which is characterized by stark contrast between Bulgarian primary sector exports and Chinese secondary sector exports. The analysis of business relations reveals that engagement between Bulgarian and Chinese companies has been sporadic and on a relatively small scale; several cases of relevant companies are explored briefly. Overall, the chapter reveals that the lack of coherence and strategy in the way that Bulgaria approaches its relations with China results in missed opportunities and unfavorable outcomes. It argues that Bulgaria needs to design and implement a national strategy for bilateral engagement with China, based on a clear vision, realistic goals, and coordinated actions. Finally, the chapter provides ten specific recommendations for the Bulgarian government.

Призив за нова съгласувана българска стратегия спрямо Китай: Практикоприложен анализ на двустранните политически и икономически отношения (2015-2022)

The Dragon at the Gates of Europe: Chinese Presence in the Balkans and Central-Eastern Europe, 2023

Тази глава анализира двустранните отношения между България и Китай от 2015 до 2022 г., като се фо... more Тази глава анализира двустранните отношения между България и Китай от 2015 до 2022 г., като се фокусира върху политическите, търговските и бизнес (включително инвестиционните) измерения. Анализът на политическите отношения започва с изследване на диалога на високо ниво, който е довел до ограничени резултати; по-нататъшното изложение разглежда дипломатическите отношения между двете страни и дейността на съответните им посолства. Анализът на търговските отношения показва, че най-значимите общи тенденции са нарастващ търговски дефицит за България и асиметричен продуктов микс, който се характеризира с рязък контраст между българския износ на първичния сектор и китайския износ на вторичния сектор. Анализът на бизнес отношенията разкрива, че ангажираността между български и китайски фирми е спорадична и в сравнително малък мащаб; изследвани са накратко няколко казуса на съответните компании. Като цяло, главата разкрива, че липсата на съгласуваност и стратегия в начина, по който България подхожда към отношенията си с Китай, води до пропуснати възможности и неблагоприятни резултати. В нея се твърди, че България трябва да разработи и приложи национална стратегия за двустранно сътрудничество с Китай, основана на ясна визия, реалистични цели и координирани действия. И накрая, в главата са дадени десет конкретни препоръки към българското правителство.

Top-Down or Bottom-Up? Employing a Middle-Ground Approach in Designing a Uk Academic Writing Course for Advanced Chinese Graduates

Journal of Teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes, May 18, 2020

This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners a... more This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners aiming to pursue postgraduate degrees in business-related fields at their respective target universities in the UK. Four holders of BA degrees in the social sciences from second tier universities in Beijing were tested, surveyed and observed in detail to design a non-terminal twenty-hour pre-sessional writing course (ten two-hour sessions) to assist in their preparation for postgraduate study. All students held offers from Russell Group universities in the UK and had covered the IELTS requirement (6.5-7.0) for admission there prior to signing up for the EAP course discussed in this paper. The aim of the course is to enhance the students' academic skills and improve their performance in the following year when they attend UK universities. The course design process is informed by two sets of principles, incorporating both a top-down and a bottom-up perspective. The former is framed within an understanding of EAP as academic, rather than language training. The latter is based on needs analysis of student-specific weaknesses explored through the use of a questionnaire, a diagnostic writing test and in-class observations. Both perspectives feed into the course goals and objectives which serve as a basis for the course rationale. Aiming to bridge the gap between Chinese undergraduate and UK postgraduate study, the course combines textbooks with authentic materials and formative with summative assessment. Reflections on major constraints and limitations are provided throughout the process. This documented case of academic writing course design aims to reveal challenges faced by EAP practitioners working with UK and Chinese institutions, and to present a middle ground approach to resolving tensions between top-down and bottom-up pressures in the context of course design for advanced Chinese graduates.

A Reflexive Critique of Inter-paradigm Divisions in International Relations Theory: On Anarchy, Hierarchy and Pre-1919 Theory

International Studies, Jun 8, 2022

This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between... more This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between mainstream (realist/liberal/constructivist) and Critical (neo-Marxist/neo-Gramscian) theories of International Relations based on their different assumptions about the nature of the international system: anarchy and hierarchy, respectively. The first half of the article argues that adopting common definitions of these concepts makes the anarchy–hierarchy debate theoretically irresolvable and further demonstrates that mainstream and Critical theories do not share an understanding of these terms neither between, nor within, their own traditions. The second half of this article challenges and aims to correct the interpretation of three key political thinkers, Halford J. Mackinder, W. E. B. DuBois and Norman Angell as appropriated within the inter-paradigm debates of International Relations. It argues that the respective associations of these thinkers with early realism, critical theories and early liberalism are intellectually misguiding because their works exhibit a common understanding of the ‘international’ across macro- and micro-dimensions, which is uncharacteristic of ‘-isms’. This shows that popular interpretations of pre-1919 works through post-1919 paradigms can obscure more than they reveal. These findings do not seek to present new ideas but to produce a reflexive critique of IR which illuminates some, perhaps unintended, counter-productive systemic effects that inter-paradigm divisions can have on the discipline.

A Reflexive Critique of Inter-paradigm Divisions in International Relations Theory: On Anarchy, Hierarchy and Pre-1919 Theory

International Studies

This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between... more This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between mainstream (realist/liberal/constructivist) and Critical (neo-Marxist/neo-Gramscian) theories of International Relations based on their different assumptions about the nature of the international system: anarchy and hierarchy, respectively. The first half of the article argues that adopting common definitions of these concepts makes the anarchy–hierarchy debate theoretically irresolvable and further demonstrates that mainstream and Critical theories do not share an understanding of these terms neither between, nor within, their own traditions. The second half of this article challenges and aims to correct the interpretation of three key political thinkers, Halford J. Mackinder, W. E. B. DuBois and Norman Angell as appropriated within the inter-paradigm debates of International Relations. It argues that the respective associations of these thinkers with early realism, critical theories a...

Actions Speak Louder than Words: China’s Consultative Peacekeeping in Africa

Strategic Analysis, 2019

Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanat... more Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanations for China's increasingly assertive security policy. To avoid this pitfall, this article adopts a narrower focus on Chinese security policy towards Africa. It explores two contrasting cases, namely Sudan/South Sudan and Mali to demonstrate that China: a) pursues security engagement only after obtaining permission by relevant parties (UN; regional organizations; target state); b) favours peacekeeping (stability) over peacebuilding (arbitrary support for emerging regimes); c) strategically interweaves its economic goals and security policy strategy. The article thus re-conceptualizes China's new security policy towards Africa as 'consultative peacekeeping.'

A Reflexive Critique of Inter-paradigm Divisions in International Relations Theory: On Anarchy, Hierarchy and Pre-1919 Theory

International Studies, 2022

This article begins by reopening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between ... more This article begins by reopening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between mainstream (realist/liberal/constructivist) and Critical (neo-Marxist/neo-Gramscian) theories of International Relations based on their different assumptions about the nature of the international system: anarchy and hierarchy, respectively. The first half of the article argues that adopting common definitions of these concepts makes the anarchy-hierarchy debate theoretically irresolvable and further demonstrates that mainstream and Critical theories do not share an understanding of these terms neither between, nor within, their own traditions. The second half of this article challenges and aims to correct the interpretation of three key political thinkers, Halford J. Mackinder, W. E. B. DuBois and Norman Angell as appropriated within the inter-paradigm debates of International Relations. It argues that the respective associations of these thinkers with early realism, critical theories and early liberalism are intellectually misguiding because their works exhibit a common understanding of the 'international' across macro-and micro-dimensions, which is uncharacteristic of '-isms'. This shows that popular interpretations of pre-1919 works through post-1919 paradigms can obscure more than they reveal. These findings do not seek to present new ideas but to produce a reflexive critique of IR which illuminates some, perhaps unintended, counter-productive systemic effects that inter-paradigm divisions can have on the discipline.

China Pushed the Pink Tide and the Pink Tide Pulled China: Intertwining Economic Interests and Ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia (2005–2014)

World Affairs, 2020

This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepe... more This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepening economic relations with China from 2005 to 2014. First, it reveals that market trends account for trade fluctuations but fail to explain Chinese investment in, and some loan deals with, Ecuador as well as loans to Bolivia. Second, it demonstrates how these forms of funding provided alternatives to U.S.-led international institutions, enabling Rafael Correa and Evo Morales to steer away from Western influence. Third, it contends that four factors led to a cyclic reinforcement of Chinese economic interests and the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia, namely: mutual complementarity between China’s demand for energy/natural resource supply diversification and Pink Tide development agendas; U.S.–China geopolitical competition for influence in Latin America; China’s experience in engaging with leftist governments from developing countries; and anti-Americanism shaping national...

Top-Down or Bottom-Up? Employing a Middle-Ground Approach in Designing a Uk Academic Writing Course for Advanced Chinese Graduates

Journal of Teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes

This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners a... more This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners aiming to pursue postgraduate degrees in business-related fields at their respective target universities in the UK. Four holders of BA degrees in the social sciences from second tier universities in Beijing were tested, surveyed and observed in detail to design a non-terminal twenty-hour pre-sessional writing course (ten two-hour sessions) to assist in their preparation for postgraduate study. All students held offers from Russell Group universities in the UK and had covered the IELTS requirement (6.5-7.0) for admission there prior to signing up for the EAP course discussed in this paper. The aim of the course is to enhance the students’ academic skills and improve their performance in the following year when they attend UK universities. The course design process is informed by two sets of principles, incorporating both a top-down and a bottom-up perspective. The former is framed within a...

Call for Book Chapters: Lessons from Regional Responses to Health, Environmental and Security Challenges in Latin America

Call for Chapters, 2022

Emerging challenges in the 21st century transcend traditional state borders and require intergove... more Emerging challenges in the 21st century transcend traditional state borders and require intergovernmental coordination to produce collective responses, a process that is increasingly embedded in regional and sub-regional organizations. Over 20 of these organizations are located in Latin America where they are entangled in multiple complementary, overlapping and competing agreements. Much of the literature on this topic has focused on economic integration or institutional analysis, but fewer works have explored the collaborative aspect of Latin American responses to emerging issues within three key domains: public health, environmental protection, and security.

This edited volume will seek to examine the collective efforts of Latin American states to address common challenges within these areas over the past decade, as well as the effect that this has on regional integration processes. It aims to answer questions such as:
- How do Latin American mechanisms for regional coordination contribute to addressing public health, environmental protection and security challenges?
- To what extent are such efforts successful?
- In what ways does this impact the ongoing process of Latin American integration?
- What lessons can be drawn for both Latin America and other regions?

The deadline for submitting a proposal for a potential chapter contribution is July 15, 2022. This could be in the form of an abstract or summary between 500 and 700 words. Your proposal should contain the main argument of your chapter as well as a suggested outline. Please also include your name, current affiliation and contact details.

Please send your submissions or any other queries directly to the volume editor: Ivo Ganchev, Centre for Regional Integration and Queen Mary University of London, at [email protected] / [email protected]

China Pushed the Pink Tide and the Pink Tide Pulled China: Intertwining Economic Interests and Ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia (2005–2014)

World Affairs, 2020

This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepe... more This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepening economic relations with China from 2005 to 2014. First, it reveals that market trends account for trade fluctuations but fail to explain Chinese investment in, and some loan deals with, Ecuador as well as loans to Bolivia. Second, it demonstrates how these forms of funding provided alternatives to U.S.-led international institutions, enabling Rafael Correa and Evo Morales to steer away from Western influence. Third, it contends that four factors led to a cyclic reinforcement of Chinese economic interests and the rise of left-ist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia, namely: mutual complementarity between China's demand for energy/natural resource supply diversification and Pink Tide development agendas; U.S.-China geopolitical competition for influence in Latin America; China's experience in engaging with leftist governments from developing countries; and anti-Americanism shaping national identity in Ec-uador and Bolivia.

Top-down or Bottom-up? Employing a Middle-ground Approach in Designing a UK Academic Writing Course for Advanced Chinese Graduates

The Journal of Teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes, 2020

This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners a... more This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners aiming to pursue postgraduate degrees in business-related fields at their respective target universities in the UK. Four holders of BA degrees in the social sciences from second tier universities in Beijing were tested, surveyed and observed in detail to design a non-terminal twenty-hour pre-sessional writing course (ten two-hour sessions) to assist in their preparation for postgraduate study. All students held offers from Russell Group universities in the UK and had covered the IELTS requirement (6.5-7.0) for admission there prior to signing up for the EAP course discussed in this paper. The aim of the course is to enhance the students' academic skills and improve their performance in the following year when they attend UK universities. The course design process is informed by two sets of principles, incorporating both a top-down and a bottom-up perspective. The former is framed within an understanding of EAP as academic, rather than language training. The latter is based on needs analysis of student-specific weaknesses explored through the use of a questionnaire, a diagnostic writing test and in-class observations. Both perspectives feed into the course goals and objectives which serve as a basis for the course rationale. Aiming to bridge the gap between Chinese undergraduate and UK postgraduate study, the course combines textbooks with authentic materials and formative with summative assessment. Reflections on major constraints and limitations are provided throughout the process. This documented case of academic writing course design aims to reveal challenges faced by EAP practitioners working with UK and Chinese institutions, and to present a middle ground approach to resolving tensions between top-down and bottom-up pressures in the context of course design for advanced Chinese graduates.

Actions Speak Louder than Words: China’s Consultative Peacekeeping in Africa

Strategic Analysis, 2019

Existing concepts (e.g. ‘non-interference’ and ‘pragmatism’) remain too vague to provide explanat... more Existing concepts (e.g. ‘non-interference’ and ‘pragmatism’) remain too vague to provide explanations for China’s increasingly assertive security policy. To avoid this pitfall, this article adopts a narrower focus on Chinese security policy towards Africa. It explores two contrasting cases, namely Sudan/South Sudan and Mali to demonstrate that China: a) pursues security engagement only after obtaining permission by relevant parties (UN; regional organizations; target state); b) favours peacekeeping (stability) over peacebuilding (arbitrary support for emerging regimes); c) strategically interweaves its economic goals and security policy strategy. The article thus re-conceptualizes China’s new security policy towards Africa as ‘consultative peacekeeping.’

Books by Ivo Ganchev

Edited Book (2024) - Latin American Responses to Security, Health and Environmental Regional Challenges (Vernon Press, edited by Dr. Ivo Ganchev)

Vernon Press, 2024

What is the role of regional organizations in maintaining security across different parts of Lati... more What is the role of regional organizations in maintaining security across different parts of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC)? How did COVID-19 impact states in the region and what types of collective action have helped respond to public health emergencies? In what way is LAC environmental policy formulated and what broader lessons can be drawn for the Global South? This edited volume addresses these questions, revealing the reasons behind the successes and failures of LAC regional responses to collective challenges as well as their limitations and potential for future improvement. It contains 11 chapters, authored by 16 authoritative academics who employ methodologically-diverse perspectives. Each chapter provides insights that would be of interest to scholars, students and policy-makers working on the regional governance of LAC and the Global South. The contributions are thematically organised in three parts and produced with pragmatic considerations in mind, discussing existing and potential real solutions to pressing issues. Keywords: Latin America, regionalism, regional integration, regional organizations, international organizations, integration, cooperation, security, Non-traditional security, health, public health, environment, environmental protection, climate change, governance, challenges, COVID-19, comparative politics, governance, lessons, policy

Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Business and Policy Studies

Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Business and Policy Studies, 2022

This proceedings volume contains papers accepted by the 2022 International Conference on Business... more This proceedings volume contains papers accepted by the 2022 International Conference on Business and Policy Studies (CONF-BPS 2022), which are carefully selected and reviewed by professional reviewers from corresponding research fields and the editorial team of the conference. This volume presents latest research achievements, inspirations, and applications in applied economy, finance, enterprise management, public administration, and policy studies. CONF-BPS hopes this volume could be inspiring and of academic value.Business and policy studies both are heated research topics and are related to multiple fields. Held by Eliwise Academy, CONF-BPS aims at bringing together intellectuals from related fields including applied economy, finance, and public administration for academic exchange. Its goal is to serve as an international platform for researchers to present latest research progress, share ideas and inspirations, and exchange experience. Through more academic communication and exchange, this conference hops to promote international corporation and joint initiatives in relevant fields. This volume will be of interest to researchers, academics, professionals, and policy makers in the field of business, economics, management, and policy studies.

Yingxiu: After the Earthquake

中国出版集团：中译出版社 (China Translation and Publishing Corporation) - ISBN: 978-7-5001-5520-1, 2018

On May 12, 2008, at 2:28pm, the Wenchuan Earthquake struck the area and caused unprecedented dama... more On May 12, 2008, at 2:28pm, the Wenchuan Earthquake struck the area and caused unprecedented damage to the entire region by turning the town of Yingxiu into rubble. The city of Dongguan was destined to shape the history of Yingxiu. One town in the north-west mountanous areas of Sichuan, and another in the southern vast grasslands of Guangdong were brought together to crate a shared destiny for their peoples in a touching story of sincere, brotherly love.

https://www.amazon.com/Yingxiu-After-Earthquake-Fan-Wei-ebook/dp/B07HH8VRWX

Talks by Ivo Ganchev

Improved Logistics, New Physical Products And AI Integration Needed To Drive Next Gen Startup Growth

Outlook India, 2023

Since 2022, Indian startups have been facing a “funding winter” which was epitomized by a 74% yea... more Since 2022, Indian startups have been facing a “funding winter” which was epitomized by a 74% year-on-year fall in investment during Q1 2023, according to Global Data. In addition to recession fears, cautiousness over startup valuations also contributes to investor uncertainty.

The need for a market correction in the tech sector is a global phenomenon. In a survey of 46 tech companies, Bloomberg reveals that hedge funds have marked down over 70% of them by an average of 35% in Q4 2022 and Q1 2023, while mutual funds decreased their valuations by a smaller percentage. Western startups with global ambitions such as Revolut and Stripe recently saw their perceived value drop by USD $18 and $28 billion, respectively.

This global mood change will inevitably continue to have an impact on India, where most prominent startups rose as competitors to global tech companies. At their core, the services and business models of Swiggy, Flipkart, PayTM and Ola are fundamentally similar to those of Deliveroo, Amazon, N26 and Uber. This is unsurprising as over the past decade, the rise of tech startups around the world was dominated by digital platforms, which create new regulated marketplaces.However, this growth stage is over as the physical delivery of products and services now has to catch up with that of ordering them.

China-EU Cooperation Set for Qualitative Adjustments after COVID-19

China Plus, 2020

The 22nd China-EU summit indicates cooperation is set to evolve from quantitative to qualitative.... more

China and the BRI Ten Years on: Geopolitics and Development

Regional Policy Insights, 2024

In this article, Dr. Ivo Ganchev builds on his interview with Martin Zubko on the IR thinker podc... more In this article, Dr. Ivo Ganchev builds on his interview with Martin Zubko on the IR thinker podcast, exploring the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) a decade after its launch within the wider context of China's growing global ambitions. Initially launched as China's flagship infrastructure project, the BRI has become part of a larger strategic framework alongside the Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). These initiatives signal China's shift toward a more comprehensive global leadership role, encompassing economic development, security, and cultural diplomacy. Drawing on Dr. Ganchev's research expertise and practical experience, this article examines the BRI's geopolitical significance, its economic impact, and challenges such as debt sustainability and transparency. It also investigates how the BRI intersects with other global initiatives like the EU's Global Gateway and multilateral platforms such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). This article argues that despite financial challenges, the BRI remains a foundational element of China's evolving global strategy, shedding light on China's role in shaping global governance.

Actions Speak Louder than Words: China’s Consultative Peacekeeping in Africa

Strategic Analysis, Sep 3, 2019

Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanat... more Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanations for China's increasingly assertive security policy. To avoid this pitfall, this article adopts a narrower focus on Chinese security policy towards Africa. It explores two contrasting cases, namely Sudan/South Sudan and Mali to demonstrate that China: a) pursues security engagement only after obtaining permission by relevant parties (UN; regional organizations; target state); b) favours peacekeeping (stability) over peacebuilding (arbitrary support for emerging regimes); c) strategically interweaves its economic goals and security policy strategy. The article thus re-conceptualizes China's new security policy towards Africa as 'consultative peacekeeping.'

Making the Case for a New Coherent Bulgarian Strategy towards China: A Practitioner's Analysis of Bilateral Political and Economic Relations (2015-2022)

The Dragon at the Gates of Europe: Chinese Presence in the Balkans and Central-Eastern Europe, 2023

This chapter analyzes the bilateral relations between Bulgaria and China from 2015 to 2022, focus... more This chapter analyzes the bilateral relations between Bulgaria and China from 2015 to 2022, focusing on political, trade and business (including investment) dimensions. The analysis of political relations begins by examining high-level dialogue, which has produced limited outcomes; a further discussion explores diplomatic relations between two countries and the activities of their respective embassies. The analysis of trade relations indicates that the most significant overall trends are a growing trade deficit for Bulgaria and an asymmetric product mix, which is characterized by stark contrast between Bulgarian primary sector exports and Chinese secondary sector exports. The analysis of business relations reveals that engagement between Bulgarian and Chinese companies has been sporadic and on a relatively small scale; several cases of relevant companies are explored briefly. Overall, the chapter reveals that the lack of coherence and strategy in the way that Bulgaria approaches its relations with China results in missed opportunities and unfavorable outcomes. It argues that Bulgaria needs to design and implement a national strategy for bilateral engagement with China, based on a clear vision, realistic goals, and coordinated actions. Finally, the chapter provides ten specific recommendations for the Bulgarian government.

Призив за нова съгласувана българска стратегия спрямо Китай: Практикоприложен анализ на двустранните политически и икономически отношения (2015-2022)

The Dragon at the Gates of Europe: Chinese Presence in the Balkans and Central-Eastern Europe, 2023

Тази глава анализира двустранните отношения между България и Китай от 2015 до 2022 г., като се фо... more Тази глава анализира двустранните отношения между България и Китай от 2015 до 2022 г., като се фокусира върху политическите, търговските и бизнес (включително инвестиционните) измерения. Анализът на политическите отношения започва с изследване на диалога на високо ниво, който е довел до ограничени резултати; по-нататъшното изложение разглежда дипломатическите отношения между двете страни и дейността на съответните им посолства. Анализът на търговските отношения показва, че най-значимите общи тенденции са нарастващ търговски дефицит за България и асиметричен продуктов микс, който се характеризира с рязък контраст между българския износ на първичния сектор и китайския износ на вторичния сектор. Анализът на бизнес отношенията разкрива, че ангажираността между български и китайски фирми е спорадична и в сравнително малък мащаб; изследвани са накратко няколко казуса на съответните компании. Като цяло, главата разкрива, че липсата на съгласуваност и стратегия в начина, по който България подхожда към отношенията си с Китай, води до пропуснати възможности и неблагоприятни резултати. В нея се твърди, че България трябва да разработи и приложи национална стратегия за двустранно сътрудничество с Китай, основана на ясна визия, реалистични цели и координирани действия. И накрая, в главата са дадени десет конкретни препоръки към българското правителство.

Top-Down or Bottom-Up? Employing a Middle-Ground Approach in Designing a Uk Academic Writing Course for Advanced Chinese Graduates

Journal of Teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes, May 18, 2020

This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners a... more This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners aiming to pursue postgraduate degrees in business-related fields at their respective target universities in the UK. Four holders of BA degrees in the social sciences from second tier universities in Beijing were tested, surveyed and observed in detail to design a non-terminal twenty-hour pre-sessional writing course (ten two-hour sessions) to assist in their preparation for postgraduate study. All students held offers from Russell Group universities in the UK and had covered the IELTS requirement (6.5-7.0) for admission there prior to signing up for the EAP course discussed in this paper. The aim of the course is to enhance the students' academic skills and improve their performance in the following year when they attend UK universities. The course design process is informed by two sets of principles, incorporating both a top-down and a bottom-up perspective. The former is framed within an understanding of EAP as academic, rather than language training. The latter is based on needs analysis of student-specific weaknesses explored through the use of a questionnaire, a diagnostic writing test and in-class observations. Both perspectives feed into the course goals and objectives which serve as a basis for the course rationale. Aiming to bridge the gap between Chinese undergraduate and UK postgraduate study, the course combines textbooks with authentic materials and formative with summative assessment. Reflections on major constraints and limitations are provided throughout the process. This documented case of academic writing course design aims to reveal challenges faced by EAP practitioners working with UK and Chinese institutions, and to present a middle ground approach to resolving tensions between top-down and bottom-up pressures in the context of course design for advanced Chinese graduates.

A Reflexive Critique of Inter-paradigm Divisions in International Relations Theory: On Anarchy, Hierarchy and Pre-1919 Theory

International Studies, Jun 8, 2022

This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between... more This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between mainstream (realist/liberal/constructivist) and Critical (neo-Marxist/neo-Gramscian) theories of International Relations based on their different assumptions about the nature of the international system: anarchy and hierarchy, respectively. The first half of the article argues that adopting common definitions of these concepts makes the anarchy–hierarchy debate theoretically irresolvable and further demonstrates that mainstream and Critical theories do not share an understanding of these terms neither between, nor within, their own traditions. The second half of this article challenges and aims to correct the interpretation of three key political thinkers, Halford J. Mackinder, W. E. B. DuBois and Norman Angell as appropriated within the inter-paradigm debates of International Relations. It argues that the respective associations of these thinkers with early realism, critical theories and early liberalism are intellectually misguiding because their works exhibit a common understanding of the ‘international’ across macro- and micro-dimensions, which is uncharacteristic of ‘-isms’. This shows that popular interpretations of pre-1919 works through post-1919 paradigms can obscure more than they reveal. These findings do not seek to present new ideas but to produce a reflexive critique of IR which illuminates some, perhaps unintended, counter-productive systemic effects that inter-paradigm divisions can have on the discipline.

A Reflexive Critique of Inter-paradigm Divisions in International Relations Theory: On Anarchy, Hierarchy and Pre-1919 Theory

International Studies

This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between... more This article begins by re-opening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between mainstream (realist/liberal/constructivist) and Critical (neo-Marxist/neo-Gramscian) theories of International Relations based on their different assumptions about the nature of the international system: anarchy and hierarchy, respectively. The first half of the article argues that adopting common definitions of these concepts makes the anarchy–hierarchy debate theoretically irresolvable and further demonstrates that mainstream and Critical theories do not share an understanding of these terms neither between, nor within, their own traditions. The second half of this article challenges and aims to correct the interpretation of three key political thinkers, Halford J. Mackinder, W. E. B. DuBois and Norman Angell as appropriated within the inter-paradigm debates of International Relations. It argues that the respective associations of these thinkers with early realism, critical theories a...

Actions Speak Louder than Words: China’s Consultative Peacekeeping in Africa

Strategic Analysis, 2019

Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanat... more Existing concepts (e.g. 'non-interference' and 'pragmatism') remain too vague to provide explanations for China's increasingly assertive security policy. To avoid this pitfall, this article adopts a narrower focus on Chinese security policy towards Africa. It explores two contrasting cases, namely Sudan/South Sudan and Mali to demonstrate that China: a) pursues security engagement only after obtaining permission by relevant parties (UN; regional organizations; target state); b) favours peacekeeping (stability) over peacebuilding (arbitrary support for emerging regimes); c) strategically interweaves its economic goals and security policy strategy. The article thus re-conceptualizes China's new security policy towards Africa as 'consultative peacekeeping.'

A Reflexive Critique of Inter-paradigm Divisions in International Relations Theory: On Anarchy, Hierarchy and Pre-1919 Theory

International Studies, 2022

This article begins by reopening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between ... more This article begins by reopening the Third Great Debate which established division lines between mainstream (realist/liberal/constructivist) and Critical (neo-Marxist/neo-Gramscian) theories of International Relations based on their different assumptions about the nature of the international system: anarchy and hierarchy, respectively. The first half of the article argues that adopting common definitions of these concepts makes the anarchy-hierarchy debate theoretically irresolvable and further demonstrates that mainstream and Critical theories do not share an understanding of these terms neither between, nor within, their own traditions. The second half of this article challenges and aims to correct the interpretation of three key political thinkers, Halford J. Mackinder, W. E. B. DuBois and Norman Angell as appropriated within the inter-paradigm debates of International Relations. It argues that the respective associations of these thinkers with early realism, critical theories and early liberalism are intellectually misguiding because their works exhibit a common understanding of the 'international' across macro-and micro-dimensions, which is uncharacteristic of '-isms'. This shows that popular interpretations of pre-1919 works through post-1919 paradigms can obscure more than they reveal. These findings do not seek to present new ideas but to produce a reflexive critique of IR which illuminates some, perhaps unintended, counter-productive systemic effects that inter-paradigm divisions can have on the discipline.

China Pushed the Pink Tide and the Pink Tide Pulled China: Intertwining Economic Interests and Ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia (2005–2014)

World Affairs, 2020

This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepe... more This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepening economic relations with China from 2005 to 2014. First, it reveals that market trends account for trade fluctuations but fail to explain Chinese investment in, and some loan deals with, Ecuador as well as loans to Bolivia. Second, it demonstrates how these forms of funding provided alternatives to U.S.-led international institutions, enabling Rafael Correa and Evo Morales to steer away from Western influence. Third, it contends that four factors led to a cyclic reinforcement of Chinese economic interests and the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia, namely: mutual complementarity between China’s demand for energy/natural resource supply diversification and Pink Tide development agendas; U.S.–China geopolitical competition for influence in Latin America; China’s experience in engaging with leftist governments from developing countries; and anti-Americanism shaping national...

Top-Down or Bottom-Up? Employing a Middle-Ground Approach in Designing a Uk Academic Writing Course for Advanced Chinese Graduates

Journal of Teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes

This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners a... more This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners aiming to pursue postgraduate degrees in business-related fields at their respective target universities in the UK. Four holders of BA degrees in the social sciences from second tier universities in Beijing were tested, surveyed and observed in detail to design a non-terminal twenty-hour pre-sessional writing course (ten two-hour sessions) to assist in their preparation for postgraduate study. All students held offers from Russell Group universities in the UK and had covered the IELTS requirement (6.5-7.0) for admission there prior to signing up for the EAP course discussed in this paper. The aim of the course is to enhance the students’ academic skills and improve their performance in the following year when they attend UK universities. The course design process is informed by two sets of principles, incorporating both a top-down and a bottom-up perspective. The former is framed within a...

Call for Book Chapters: Lessons from Regional Responses to Health, Environmental and Security Challenges in Latin America

Call for Chapters, 2022

Emerging challenges in the 21st century transcend traditional state borders and require intergove... more Emerging challenges in the 21st century transcend traditional state borders and require intergovernmental coordination to produce collective responses, a process that is increasingly embedded in regional and sub-regional organizations. Over 20 of these organizations are located in Latin America where they are entangled in multiple complementary, overlapping and competing agreements. Much of the literature on this topic has focused on economic integration or institutional analysis, but fewer works have explored the collaborative aspect of Latin American responses to emerging issues within three key domains: public health, environmental protection, and security.

This edited volume will seek to examine the collective efforts of Latin American states to address common challenges within these areas over the past decade, as well as the effect that this has on regional integration processes. It aims to answer questions such as:
- How do Latin American mechanisms for regional coordination contribute to addressing public health, environmental protection and security challenges?
- To what extent are such efforts successful?
- In what ways does this impact the ongoing process of Latin American integration?
- What lessons can be drawn for both Latin America and other regions?

The deadline for submitting a proposal for a potential chapter contribution is July 15, 2022. This could be in the form of an abstract or summary between 500 and 700 words. Your proposal should contain the main argument of your chapter as well as a suggested outline. Please also include your name, current affiliation and contact details.

Please send your submissions or any other queries directly to the volume editor: Ivo Ganchev, Centre for Regional Integration and Queen Mary University of London, at [email protected] / [email protected]

China Pushed the Pink Tide and the Pink Tide Pulled China: Intertwining Economic Interests and Ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia (2005–2014)

World Affairs, 2020

This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepe... more This article examines the rise of leftist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia in light of their deepening economic relations with China from 2005 to 2014. First, it reveals that market trends account for trade fluctuations but fail to explain Chinese investment in, and some loan deals with, Ecuador as well as loans to Bolivia. Second, it demonstrates how these forms of funding provided alternatives to U.S.-led international institutions, enabling Rafael Correa and Evo Morales to steer away from Western influence. Third, it contends that four factors led to a cyclic reinforcement of Chinese economic interests and the rise of left-ist ideology in Ecuador and Bolivia, namely: mutual complementarity between China's demand for energy/natural resource supply diversification and Pink Tide development agendas; U.S.-China geopolitical competition for influence in Latin America; China's experience in engaging with leftist governments from developing countries; and anti-Americanism shaping national identity in Ec-uador and Bolivia.

Top-down or Bottom-up? Employing a Middle-ground Approach in Designing a UK Academic Writing Course for Advanced Chinese Graduates

The Journal of Teaching English for Specific and Academic Purposes, 2020

This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners a... more This article documents the academic writing course design process for advanced Chinese learners aiming to pursue postgraduate degrees in business-related fields at their respective target universities in the UK. Four holders of BA degrees in the social sciences from second tier universities in Beijing were tested, surveyed and observed in detail to design a non-terminal twenty-hour pre-sessional writing course (ten two-hour sessions) to assist in their preparation for postgraduate study. All students held offers from Russell Group universities in the UK and had covered the IELTS requirement (6.5-7.0) for admission there prior to signing up for the EAP course discussed in this paper. The aim of the course is to enhance the students' academic skills and improve their performance in the following year when they attend UK universities. The course design process is informed by two sets of principles, incorporating both a top-down and a bottom-up perspective. The former is framed within an understanding of EAP as academic, rather than language training. The latter is based on needs analysis of student-specific weaknesses explored through the use of a questionnaire, a diagnostic writing test and in-class observations. Both perspectives feed into the course goals and objectives which serve as a basis for the course rationale. Aiming to bridge the gap between Chinese undergraduate and UK postgraduate study, the course combines textbooks with authentic materials and formative with summative assessment. Reflections on major constraints and limitations are provided throughout the process. This documented case of academic writing course design aims to reveal challenges faced by EAP practitioners working with UK and Chinese institutions, and to present a middle ground approach to resolving tensions between top-down and bottom-up pressures in the context of course design for advanced Chinese graduates.

Actions Speak Louder than Words: China’s Consultative Peacekeeping in Africa

Strategic Analysis, 2019

Existing concepts (e.g. ‘non-interference’ and ‘pragmatism’) remain too vague to provide explanat... more Existing concepts (e.g. ‘non-interference’ and ‘pragmatism’) remain too vague to provide explanations for China’s increasingly assertive security policy. To avoid this pitfall, this article adopts a narrower focus on Chinese security policy towards Africa. It explores two contrasting cases, namely Sudan/South Sudan and Mali to demonstrate that China: a) pursues security engagement only after obtaining permission by relevant parties (UN; regional organizations; target state); b) favours peacekeeping (stability) over peacebuilding (arbitrary support for emerging regimes); c) strategically interweaves its economic goals and security policy strategy. The article thus re-conceptualizes China’s new security policy towards Africa as ‘consultative peacekeeping.’

Edited Book (2024) - Latin American Responses to Security, Health and Environmental Regional Challenges (Vernon Press, edited by Dr. Ivo Ganchev)

Vernon Press, 2024

What is the role of regional organizations in maintaining security across different parts of Lati... more What is the role of regional organizations in maintaining security across different parts of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC)? How did COVID-19 impact states in the region and what types of collective action have helped respond to public health emergencies? In what way is LAC environmental policy formulated and what broader lessons can be drawn for the Global South? This edited volume addresses these questions, revealing the reasons behind the successes and failures of LAC regional responses to collective challenges as well as their limitations and potential for future improvement. It contains 11 chapters, authored by 16 authoritative academics who employ methodologically-diverse perspectives. Each chapter provides insights that would be of interest to scholars, students and policy-makers working on the regional governance of LAC and the Global South. The contributions are thematically organised in three parts and produced with pragmatic considerations in mind, discussing existing and potential real solutions to pressing issues. Keywords: Latin America, regionalism, regional integration, regional organizations, international organizations, integration, cooperation, security, Non-traditional security, health, public health, environment, environmental protection, climate change, governance, challenges, COVID-19, comparative politics, governance, lessons, policy

Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Business and Policy Studies

Proceedings of the 2022 International Conference on Business and Policy Studies, 2022

This proceedings volume contains papers accepted by the 2022 International Conference on Business... more This proceedings volume contains papers accepted by the 2022 International Conference on Business and Policy Studies (CONF-BPS 2022), which are carefully selected and reviewed by professional reviewers from corresponding research fields and the editorial team of the conference. This volume presents latest research achievements, inspirations, and applications in applied economy, finance, enterprise management, public administration, and policy studies. CONF-BPS hopes this volume could be inspiring and of academic value.Business and policy studies both are heated research topics and are related to multiple fields. Held by Eliwise Academy, CONF-BPS aims at bringing together intellectuals from related fields including applied economy, finance, and public administration for academic exchange. Its goal is to serve as an international platform for researchers to present latest research progress, share ideas and inspirations, and exchange experience. Through more academic communication and exchange, this conference hops to promote international corporation and joint initiatives in relevant fields. This volume will be of interest to researchers, academics, professionals, and policy makers in the field of business, economics, management, and policy studies.

Yingxiu: After the Earthquake

中国出版集团：中译出版社 (China Translation and Publishing Corporation) - ISBN: 978-7-5001-5520-1, 2018

On May 12, 2008, at 2:28pm, the Wenchuan Earthquake struck the area and caused unprecedented dama... more On May 12, 2008, at 2:28pm, the Wenchuan Earthquake struck the area and caused unprecedented damage to the entire region by turning the town of Yingxiu into rubble. The city of Dongguan was destined to shape the history of Yingxiu. One town in the north-west mountanous areas of Sichuan, and another in the southern vast grasslands of Guangdong were brought together to crate a shared destiny for their peoples in a touching story of sincere, brotherly love.

https://www.amazon.com/Yingxiu-After-Earthquake-Fan-Wei-ebook/dp/B07HH8VRWX

Improved Logistics, New Physical Products And AI Integration Needed To Drive Next Gen Startup Growth

Outlook India, 2023

Since 2022, Indian startups have been facing a “funding winter” which was epitomized by a 74% yea... more Since 2022, Indian startups have been facing a “funding winter” which was epitomized by a 74% year-on-year fall in investment during Q1 2023, according to Global Data. In addition to recession fears, cautiousness over startup valuations also contributes to investor uncertainty.

The need for a market correction in the tech sector is a global phenomenon. In a survey of 46 tech companies, Bloomberg reveals that hedge funds have marked down over 70% of them by an average of 35% in Q4 2022 and Q1 2023, while mutual funds decreased their valuations by a smaller percentage. Western startups with global ambitions such as Revolut and Stripe recently saw their perceived value drop by USD $18 and $28 billion, respectively.

This global mood change will inevitably continue to have an impact on India, where most prominent startups rose as competitors to global tech companies. At their core, the services and business models of Swiggy, Flipkart, PayTM and Ola are fundamentally similar to those of Deliveroo, Amazon, N26 and Uber. This is unsurprising as over the past decade, the rise of tech startups around the world was dominated by digital platforms, which create new regulated marketplaces.However, this growth stage is over as the physical delivery of products and services now has to catch up with that of ordering them.

China-EU Cooperation Set for Qualitative Adjustments after COVID-19

China Plus, 2020

The 22nd China-EU summit indicates cooperation is set to evolve from quantitative to qualitative.... more

China Educational Consultancy – Lessons for Western Institutions

Nanjing Marketing Group, 2018

Over half a million students leave China to study abroad every year, with the US (1), Australia (... more Over half a million students leave China to study abroad every year, with the US (1), Australia (2), the UK (4) and Canada (5) being four of their top five destinations – but the seemingly smooth application process is paved with obstacles for students and foreign institutions alike. This blog post explores the main problems faced by Chinese students, provides an overview of the educational consultancy market and of the issues faced by ‘Western’ universities to provide recommendations for all stakeholders.

https://www.nanjingmarketinggroup.com/blog/lessons-for-western-institutions