The West is adapting to a new China reality

Editor's note: Jessica Durdu, a special commentator for CGTN, is a foreign affairs specialist and PhD candidate in international relations at China Foreign Affairs University. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

A recent Politico poll reveals a noteworthy development in international public opinion. Across Canada, Germany, France and the UK, countries traditionally regarded as some of Washington's closest allies, growing segments of society now view China more favorably and are increasingly questioning the reliability of the United States as a long-term partner.

While some observers interpret this trend primarily through the lens of short-term political developments, particularly the foreign policy choices of the current US administration, the phenomenon is rooted in deeper structural transformations within the international system.

At its core, this shift reflects not merely a change in attitudes toward China but a broader reassessment of the post-Cold War international order. For more than three decades, the international system was characterized by varying degrees of American predominance. The assumption that US leadership would provide stability and predictability became a foundational element of global governance. However, repeated disruptions, from financial crises and geopolitical conflicts to trade disputes and policy reversals between successive administrations, have gradually weakened confidence in this arrangement.

The growing desire among Europeans and Canadians to reduce dependence on the US illustrates a broader quest for strategic autonomy. French President Emmanuel Macron's long-standing call for "European strategic autonomy" provides a clear example of this trend. The concept was once regarded as controversial within transatlantic circles, but recent developments have brought it closer to mainstream political discourse. The issue is no longer whether allies value their relationship with the US; rather, it is whether relying excessively on any single power remains desirable in an increasingly complex world.

In Canada, nearly half of respondents (48%) stated that reducing dependence on the US would be both possible and desirable, and similar sentiments were observed across Europe. At the same time, significantly fewer respondents believe that reducing reliance on China would be feasible, reflecting China's central position in global supply chains and manufacturing networks. The survey also revealed younger generations' particularly strong support for closer engagement with China.

Furthermore, many participants identified China as a leading force in key technological sectors, including artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. Together, these findings suggest that perceptions of global influence are evolving alongside broader changes in the international political and economic landscape.

This perception is not solely a consequence of economic interdependence. It also reflects recognition of China's contribution to global development and economic stability. During periods of global uncertainty, including the 2008 international financial crisis and the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, China remained a major engine of global growth and trade. Infrastructure initiatives, expanding market access and increasing technological innovation have reinforced the image of China as a country capable of contributing to international economic resilience.

The technological dimension of this changing perception is equally important. Historically, technological leadership was often viewed as synonymous with Western dominance. However, recent advances in EVs, renewable energy technologies, AI, digital commerce and advanced manufacturing have been altering this perception. The rapid global expansion of Chinese EV producers and China's leading position in solar energy production demonstrate how technological innovation is becoming more geographically diversified.

For younger generations, these developments carry particular significance. Unlike previous generations whose perceptions were largely shaped by traditional media and Cold War-era narratives, younger audiences encounter China through direct digital interactions, social media platforms, educational exchanges, tourism and business networks. As a result, their understanding of China is often more nuanced and less constrained by older geopolitical frameworks. This does not necessarily imply uncritical support for China. Rather, it reflects a willingness to evaluate international actors based on contemporary performance rather than inherited assumptions.

However, the survey findings should not be interpreted as evidence of a wholesale geopolitical realignment. The US is still a leading military, technological and economic power with extensive alliances and global influence. But the data suggest that the public in key allied countries is increasingly embracing a world characterized by multiple centers of influence rather than a single dominant actor.

This is perhaps the most significant implication of the poll. The growing openness toward China reflects a broader acceptance of multipolarity as a practical reality. Citizens confronted with geopolitical uncertainty appear less interested in exclusive alignments and more interested in diversified partnerships that maximize stability, prosperity and strategic flexibility.

As the international system continues its gradual transformation, the key question may no longer be whether the world will remain unipolar or become multipolar. Instead, the emerging debate concerns how major powers can collectively contribute to a more balanced, inclusive and resilient international order. The changing attitudes observed across Western societies indicate that many citizens have already begun adapting to this new reality.

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