The number of democracies is falling around the world, while the number of autocracies is increasing. Nele Noesselt says a scenario that used to be part of the past re-emerged and gained power since 2007 and 2008, namely: "thinking in power blocs." This kind of bloc-based thinking means we ask much less often what goals China is actually, realistically pursuing. Moreover, China's signals about economic cooperation are often not taken seriously: "The answers from China are often dismissed as mere propaganda or nation branding." China feels increasingly isolated, she said. -ls

Katrin Rulle

South-East Asia is another potential source of conflict that has so far been of interest mainly just to a select group of experts. States such as Malaysia or the Philippines are caught between Chinese and American influence. Nevertheless, Liew Chin Tong says neither the Chinese nor the Europeans or Americans really understand the region. "We will continue to face the challenge of not wanting to choose between two giants," says the former deputy defense minister of Malaysia. "South-East Asia will continue to be a neighbour of China, but we also need other allies. The U.S. presence is important to ensure a balance." -mb

Katrin Rulle