The Diplomat | Author
Dan Macklin
Dan Macklin is a political analyst and risk consultant, based between Beijing and Shanghai. He writes about Chinese politics and political economy.
Dan was previously a graduate researcher at the Oxford University China Centre, where his research focused on the role of propaganda in contemporary Chinese governance. At undergraduate level, he studied Chinese language and history at the University of Cambridge and Peking University.
You can find Dan on Twitter @thatdanmacklin or visit his personal blog.
May 20, 2023
Decoding China’s Counter-Espionage Crackdown
By Dan Macklin
The recent series of raids and arrests signals an expanded national security drive during Xi Jinping’s third term.
April 17, 2023
Beijing’s Bid to Overhaul China’s Tech-Finance Nexus
By Dan Macklin
Will reforms and crackdowns help to advance China’s core technology capabilities?
March 14, 2023
Li Qiang: Does a New Premier Matter in Xi’s China?
By Dan Macklin
While the powers of the premier have subsided, Li Qiang’s importance may lie in his ability to be a moderating force.
February 28, 2023
Li Keqiang’s Legacy: A Recommitment to Reformism
By Dan Macklin
Despite his reputation for being a political weakling, Li deserves credit for successfully championing reformist economic values.
February 09, 2023
Where Is China’s Politics Headed in 2023?
By Dan Macklin
Beijing continues to face significant uncertainties at home and abroad, as the recent “Balloon-gate” saga demonstrates.
December 13, 2022
Has Xi Averted a ‘Winter of Discontent’ in China?
By Dan Macklin
Ending “zero COVID” is Beijing’s best option, but it comes at the worst possible time.
November 03, 2022
The Ideological Shift Behind Xi’s Clean Sweep
By Dan Macklin
A multi-year effort has brought strongman rule back into the Communist Party liturgy.
October 12, 2022
China’s 20th Party Congress: A Downside Scenario
By Dan Macklin
If political turnover norms are abandoned, Xi could surround himself with compliant officials, raising the risk of policy missteps.
October 04, 2022
China’s 20th Party Congress: An Upside Scenario
By Dan Macklin
Turnover norms for Beijing’s top governing body could check Xi’s power and boost pro-market reformers.
September 17, 2022
Mounting Problems Threaten to Dampen Xi’s Congress Victory
By Dan Macklin
China’s leader faces a litany of domestic and international challenges that are creating a gloomy backdrop to his anticipated reselection.
August 29, 2022
What’s Driving China’s Chip Sector Crackdown?
By Dan Macklin
The recent investigations come amid rising geostrategic competition, a domestic political transition, and broader regulatory tightening.
July 11, 2022
Why a Xi Jinping Third Term Looks Secure
By Dan Macklin
From key personnel appointments to a surge in loyalty displays, all signs point to China’s leader continuing in power.
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