Xi re-elected to China's top job [What Think Tanks are thinking]

Briefing 28-10-2022

Xi-Jinping won a third term in China's top job, as secretary general of the Communist Party, at its Congress in October, solidifying his grip on power over a country which has become increasingly autocratic and abrasive in its foreign policy during his 10-year reign to date. Xi's re-election for a third term broke with China's recent tradition of leaders being replaced after two terms, in a sign he will yield power in a manner reminiscent of communist China's founder Mao Zedong. His new reign begins amid fears that China might try to annex Taiwan, and with questions over the extent to which he will support Russia in its war against Ukraine. Domestically, Xi faces challenges including faltering growth, a property crisis, and huge debt levels. This note gathers links to the recent publications and commentaries from many international think tanks on China, its international relations and domestic policies.