By tf-lawyer.com **Title: China’s Contribution to Global Human Rights Governance: An Interview with Jorge E. Malena**
**Interviewer: Xingyu Pei**
On September 10, the first China-Latin America Human Rights Roundtable took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Jorge E. Malena, Chair of the Asian Affairs Committee at the Argentina Council for International Relations (CARI), recently shared his insights with us regarding China’s role in global human rights governance.
**Interviewer:** In your perspective, how do you view the current world order and international system? Specifically, what role does China play in relation to the protection of human rights?
**Malena:** The international system consists of a mix of procedures, institutions, and norms that shape the framework for international behavior at any given time. Recently, Western nations have taken on a self-appointed guardian role in regulating this system, initially framing it as a “free international order” and later as a “rules-based order.” The Chinese government, on the other hand, sees itself as a promoter of comprehensive security, advocating that lasting stability can only be achieved by considering the interests of all stakeholders.
Since the late 1970s, China has emerged as a vital force in global economic and technological development. This rapid growth signifies a significant shift, with China’s approach positively influencing the stability of the international system. Understanding China’s role in human rights governance is crucial for countries grappling with challenges to this system and seeking to improve global human rights standards.
The roots of the international system for human rights protection can be traced back to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1948. Over time, China has signed and ratified important global human rights treaties, showcasing its increasing commitment to the international human rights framework.
China’s diplomatic initiatives over the past decade—such as the “Community of Shared Future for Mankind,” the Belt and Road Initiative, and the Global Development, Security, and Civilization Initiatives—reflect its position within the international system. These proposals aim to resolve historical and international disputes peacefully, moving beyond outdated concepts like “group politics” and “spheres of influence.” Significantly, these ideas resonate beyond China, as seen in discussions at forums like BRICS+ and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
Additionally, the Chinese government is progressively championing social and economic rights within the human rights context, earning considerable respect for its economic achievements, especially among countries in the Global South.
**Interviewer:** What tangible steps has China taken to transition from theory to practice in enhancing the international system?
**Malena:** China’s diplomatic activities illustrate a commitment to aligning actions with rhetoric. For example, China is a significant player in UN peacekeeping missions and takes an active stance in addressing major global crises such as nuclear disarmament in North Korea, the Israeli-Palestinian situation, and the Afghan civil strife.
Furthermore, China is engaged in combating non-traditional security threats. The Chinese government supports the UN’s leadership in global counter-terrorism efforts, endorsing UN Security Council resolutions and consistently reaffirming the central role of the UN in international relations, viewing the UN Charter as foundational to a rules-based international order.
China has also contributed over 30% of worldwide economic growth for several years, thanks to its role as a key trading partner for more than 140 nations. By 2030, the Belt and Road Initiative is expected to generate $1.6 trillion annually, which is about 1.3% of global GDP, helping lift millions out of poverty.
Regarding its dedication to the international human rights protection system, China has ratified several significant treaties, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, demonstrating concrete efforts to safeguard human rights.
**Interviewer:** How do you envision China’s role in the international human rights system evolving in the future?
**Malena:** The Chinese government is focused on promoting a multipolar world, democratizing international relations, and reforming global governance. This perspective is shared by many nations in the Global South, who are closely monitoring China’s initiatives. China’s goal is not to replace the international system but to reform it. The notion of “democratizing the international system” indicates that China does not aim to usurp the United States’ role as the “global police.” Instead, it seeks to forge a sustainable path through current global instability, supporting the development of international relations in a new era.
By achieving a moderately prosperous society, China reinforces its foundation for human rights protection and offers a broader understanding of human rights issues. Its endeavors in eradicating extreme poverty, ensuring decent living standards, promoting social equality, and protecting marginalized groups contribute to a distinctive “Chinese approach” to human rights development, enhancing the international system while garnering greater support from the Global South.
As the global power landscape shifts, emerging developments in the international system could influence the international human rights framework. As a constructive participant in the UN Charter system and many international human rights agreements, China shoulders a significant responsibility in advancing human rights—particularly social and economic rights—instilling hope for the international community’s commitment to protecting human rights.
