China’s Influence in International Organizations

In recent years, China has increased its influence in international organizations by strategically placing its nationals in multilateral standard-setting bodies and through the use of economic and political leverage to reshape the international order to better accommodate its authoritarian system of governance.  The report made recommendations for the State Department on how to address China’s influence with the goal of preserving the rules-based international system championed by the United States and its allies and partners. 

Based on over 30 interviews with diplomats, policymakers, and technical experts, the team recommended the United States: 1) enhance cooperation with Group of 77 countries – a caucus of 134 nations promoting the collective priorities of developing countries; 2) increase American and like-minded representation at all levels in the UN system.  The United States should seek to strengthen ties with countries and regional blocs beyond traditional allies, with a focus on developing countries.  Assessing political, economic, and security indicators, the team identified 30 potential G77 partners for collaboration with the United States to serve as force multipliers to address common challenges, share costs, and widen the circle of cooperation.  

The United States should prioritize efforts to increase representation of Americans and nationals from like-minded countries, including G77 countries, at all levels in international organizations.  Adopting a new framework to expand its Junior Professional Officers program and working with partners to recruit, track, and endorse like-minded candidates for leadership positions will help ensure the UN system is staffed by qualified, impartial personnel essential to preserving institutional integrity.