Between Hard and Soft Balancing: Are we witnessing the formation of an anti-China coalition in the Asia-Pacific region?

Abstract

The thesis investigates the nuanced responses of states in the Asia-Pacific region to the emergence of a powerful China, focusing on theories of balancing in international relations. Scholars have debated whether neighboring nations actively balance against China's growing influence and in what ways they do so. The study addresses gaps in the literature by examining both hard and soft balancing strategies employed by states in response to perceived threats from China. Through a systematic analysis of case studies, it reveals that while hard balancing is pursued in response to direct security threats, states often resort to soft balancing to counter China's influence when the threat level is manageable. The research contributes fresh insights into the conditions and strategies used by states when responding to China's rise, shedding light on the complexities of regional dynamics.