Top-level Design and Enlarged Diplomacy: Foreign and Security Policymaking in Xi Jinping’s China

Abstract

ABSTRACT Xi Jinping has centralized foreign policymaking authorities by setting up new central coordination organizations with himself as the head to bypass entrenched interests and cut through bureaucratic roadblocks. Staking his claim to power on the party and demanding personal loyalty of Chinese bureaucrats to him in a way that none of his recent predecessors could; Xi has introduced a top-level design to develop strategic visions, conduct strategic planning, and make tough decisions. The top-level design has advanced the enlarged diplomacy far beyond the sphere of professional diplomats. But Xi’s personalization of Chinese foreign and security policymaking has increased the possibility of intended and unintended consequences of foreign adventure and actions.