Chinese Approaches to Peace: Beyond the Liberal Peace?

Abstract The article analyzes conceptions of peace in Chinese theories of International Relations, focusing on the work of Zhao Tingyang and Qin Yaqing. It questions how these conceptions contrast with the premises of Western liberal peace. The article argues that Chinese theories offer a distinct view of peace centered on harmony and relational stability as opposed to the Western emphasis on promoting liberal-democratic values. However, there are under-explored issues in the Chinese contributions, particularly regarding the practical operationalization of concepts and the possibility of new international hierarchies. To support its argument, the article employs a qualitative literature review of selected sources, combined with a comparative analysis of the key concepts of Chinese theories vis-à-vis the postulates of liberal peace.