Chinese and Development Assistance Committee (DAC) development cooperation and development finance: implications for the BRI and international governance

Abstract

ABSTRACTA comparison of Development Assistance Committee (DAC) and Chinese models of development cooperation and finance is indicative of whether or not the principles underling the Belt and Road Initiative differ significantly from those of the western-dominated liberal order. In spite of superficial similarities, the Chinese model rests on a different conception of international relationships: western models derive from an experience of colonialism and are evident in interventionist models (of coordination, harmonization, monitoring and evaluation and accountability requirements) designed to expand private ownership and western governance models. The Chinese model, while reflecting China’s interests, derives from China’s distinctive historical experience of engagement with its peripheries as one of “chao gong” (朝贡 tribute to an Emperor), China’s own experiences of colonialism and socialist development, Confucian values of self-reliance, mutual benefit (win-win) and noninterference and a concept of common values (共性 gòng xìng).