Lessons from Xi Jinping’s leadership

EMPOWERING THE GLOBAL SOUTH

- PROFESSOR DAVID MONYAE

I WOULD like to convey my profound gratitude to my family who inspired and encouraged me during the development of my book, Xi Jinping and The Global South.

It is dedicated to the memory of my late brother, Mashudu Eddie Edward Monyae. I'm also grateful to my colleagues at the Centre for Africa~China Studies (CACS) at the University of Johannesburg. My thanks also goes to the Chinese Embassy for its facilitation of scholarly collaboration with colleagues in China.

This book invites us all to rethink international relations from the critical perspective of the Global South, a lens that reveals both the challenges and opportunities shaping our shared world.

Understanding international relations is far more than an academic pursuit; it is essential for grappling with the complex dynamics, from conflicts and economic disparities to environmental crises and rapid technological transformations.

For too long, the global order has been dominated by a limited set of powerful actors, marginalising the voices and interests of Global South countries. This structural imbalance has perpetuated inequalities and artificially limited opportunities for meaningful participation in global governance. However, this book reflects the ongoing transformation, where Global South nations are increasingly raising their voices, crafting new narratives, asserting agency, and contributing innovative solutions to global challenges.

Why focus on China?

Why examine Xi Jinping’s leadership?

Why place the Global South at the centre of analysis?

These inquiries are rooted in my personal journey; from childhood encounters with the conflicting narratives about China such as the story of the Tazara Railway and China's role during the Second World War, to academic explorations during South Africa's transformative years post-apartheid.