Special Issue of Journal of Current Chinese Affairs on "China’s Expanding Influence in Latin America and the Caribbean"

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Guest Editors

Narayani Sritharan (AidData, William & Mary)

Ana Horigoshi (AidData, William & Mary)

Jonathan A. Solis (AidData, William & Mary)

Scope and Themes

This special issue examines the evolving role of China in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), focusing on development finance, public perceptions, and strategic partnerships. As Chinese investments reshape regional economies and governance structures, their influence on political, economic, and social dynamics is increasingly significant. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of China’s engagement in LAC, its broader geopolitical implications, and the challenges it presents for economic development, governance, and public opinion.

We welcome both empirical studies (qualitative, quantitative, computational, and mixed-methods) and theoretical contributions addressing various aspects of China’s role in LAC. Contributors are invited to explore, but are not limited to, the following themes:

• LAC Leaders’ and Citizens’ Perceptions of China as a Development Partner
• Chinese Investment in the Caribbean and Its Strategic Implications
• The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Latin America and the Caribbean
• Economic Consequences of China’s Slowdown for LAC Economies
• Public Perceptions of China and the Role of Media Narratives
• China’s Strategic Partnerships and Soft Power in LAC
• Governance and Debt Sustainability of Chinese-Funded Projects
• Environmental and Social Impacts of China’s Development Finance
• Comparisons Between Chinese and Traditional Donors in the Region
• The Future of China- LAC Relations Amid Global Geopolitical Shifts
• China’s Role in Regional Trade and Supply Chains
• Security and Military Cooperation Between China and LAC Countries
• Digital Infrastructure and Telecommunications Investments
• The Political Economy of Chinese Loans and Conditionality
• China’s Influence on LAC’s Multilateral Engagements
• Labor Practices and Workforce Implications of Chinese Investments
• China’s Engagement with Indigenous and Marginalized Communities
• Infrastructure Diplomacy and Strategic Port Investments
• Media Partnerships and State-Sponsored Messaging in LAC
• LAC Countries’ Negotiation Strategies with China
• Brazil as a BRICS member and a key regional partner for China

Please see here for the full call for papers.