Problems of the divided nations: China-Taiwan : In what ways does Chinese national identity shape the People's Republic of China's policy toward Taiwan?

Details

Supervisors

Atanassova, Elena

Faculty

Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales, politiques et de communication

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences politiques, orientation relations internationales, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

enThis thesis explores how Chinese national identity shapes the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) policy and strategic behavior toward Taiwan from the early 2000s to 2024. Using a constructivist theoretical framework, it examines how evolving conceptions of national identity have influenced Beijing’s cross-Strait approach under the leadership of Hu Jintao (2003-2013) and Xi Jinping (2013-now). Through critical discourse analysis of official speeches, political documents, and secondary academic sources, the research traces both the historical roots and contemporary expressions of the belief that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. Particular attention is given to how both presidents have constructed national narratives and how U.S.-China relations have shaped Beijing’s stance toward Taiwan. The findings suggest that Chinese national identity, as articulated by successive administrations, plays a central role in legitimizing domestic rule and guiding foreign policy, impacting not only official rhetoric but also concrete actions toward Taiwan. The study acknowledges methodological limitations, such as language barriers and reliance on translated or secondary sources. Finally, it argues that understanding the interplay between identity, discourse and power is essential to grasping China's enduring commitment to reunification and its efforts to assert itself as a global power in the region.