Introduction: A Framework for Analyzing the Evolution of China's Nonproliferation Behavior

Abstract

This book explores the evolution of China's policies and practices on the nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The changes in Chinese behavior have evolved along three dimensions: China's official policy, China's exports of WMD and related goods and technologies, and developments within the Chinese government. In the period from 1980 to 2004, China has followed a variety of nonproliferation commitments. The evolution in Chinese policies and practices resulted to the wider sources of change in Chinese foreign policy. The U.S. policy intervention, the degree of China's acceptance of nonproliferation norms, China's foreign policy priorities, and China's institutional capacity have affected the nonproliferation policies and practices of China. Finally, an overview of the chapters included in this book is given.