China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI)

China’s Global Governance Initiative (GGI), proposed by President Xi Jinping in 2025, outlines a vision for a more just, equitable, and inclusive global governance system centered on five key principles and aims to strengthen multilateral cooperation, especially under the United Nations framework.

Five Core Principles

• Sovereign Equality: Every country, regardless of its size, power, or wealth, should be an equal participant, decision-maker, and beneficiary in global governance.

• International Rule of Law: Global rules must be applied equally, rejecting double standards or rules imposed by a select few nations.

• Multilateralism: International collaboration through organizations like the UN and regional bodies should be upheld to address global problems inclusively.

• People-Centered Approach: Policies must prioritize individuals, aiming for shared benefits and development opportunities.

• Action and Implementation: Emphasis on taking concrete steps to tackle urgent global governance challenges, rather than relying on empty rhetoric.

Strategic Focus Areas

China’s GGI prioritizes reforms in domains where global governance is insufficient or outdated:

• Reform of the international financial system

• Artificial intelligence, cyberspace, and digital governance

• Climate change mitigation and adaptation

• Equitable international trade systems

• Responsible and cooperative use of outer space.

Multilateral Platforms and Cooperation

China advocates using the United Nations, international organizations, and regional groups like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to lead, coordinate, and implement the GGI:

• The initiative was launched at the largest-ever SCO summit in Tianjin, with over 20 countries and 10 major organizations participating.

• China stresses the central role of the UN in driving consensus and pragmatic progress on global governance reforms.

Vision and Impact

The GGI builds on previous Chinese frameworks (Global Development, Security, and Civilization Initiatives), focusing on creating a “community with a shared future for humanity.” The initiative warns against hegemonism, Cold War mentalities, and protectionism, aiming to enhance cooperation, peace, and prosperity.

• China has positioned the GGI as a solution to contemporary global turbulence and transformation.

• The initiative especially seeks to amplify the voice and representation of developing and Global South countries in international affairs.

Summary Table: Key Elements of China’s GGI

Principle/Area	Main Focus	Citation
Sovereign Equality	Equal participation for all countries
International Rule of Law	No double standards, equal application of rules
Multilateralism	Collaboration via UN, SCO, and other bodies
People-Centered Approach	Shared benefits, development, human-driven policies
Real Actions	Focus on practical reforms, not just principles
Priority Reform Areas	Finance, AI, cyberspace, climate change, trade, outer space
UN Role	Emphasis on authority and key role of United Nations

China’s GGI positions the country as a leading advocate for more inclusive, effective, and balanced international cooperation and governance reform.