Backlash

China's Struggle for Influence in Central Asia

By Bradley Jardine and Edward Lemon (Oxford University Press, 2025)

Central Asia is at the forefront of China's efforts to assert itself as a major world power. Since 1991, Beijing has emerged as the region's main investor, creditor, and trade partner, as well as an increasingly important security provider. But its growing influence has met opposition: in recent years, anti-China protests have erupted across Central Asia, threatening Beijing's shaky regional hegemony.

Oxus Society's founding President Edward Lemon and Managing Director Bradley Jardine examine how Central Asians are pushing back against China's global ambitions, and trace Beijing's attempts to manage its image and secure its interests in response. Drawing on over a decade of fieldwork, Backlash reveals the uncertainties of China's rise. Far from being the omnipotent strategist often depicted in international media, Beijing is making significant missteps, alienating local people and becoming entangled in costly interventions to protect its citizens and investments.

Winner, Fletcher Russia and Eurasia 2026 Book Award The Fletcher School, Tufts University
Oxford University Press Amazon Hurst Publishers

Reviews

"Backlash challenges the way we think about global security — and about whose voices have been left out of that conversation. This is not just a regional study — this is about global power, the politics of fear and the ways that justice, accountability and the rights of those most vulnerable can be silenced. An important and often unnerving book."

Peter Frankopan, Professor of Global History, University of Oxford

"The most well-researched, data-rich and theoretically sophisticated book on China's growing presence in Central Asia. The authors, leading experts as long-time observers and researchers in the region, have compiled a treasure trove of ethnographic experiences and important unique data."

Alexander Cooley, Claire Tow Professor of Political Science, Barnard College, Columbia University

"A rare, vivid and systematic study into the impact of China's influence in Central Asia — a sensitive and critical region for China's global footprint. Backlash showcases the non-linear pathway of China's global power, as it meets unexpected upheaval by recipient countries, and attempts to readjust its strategies. A must-read for anyone interested in Global China and China in Central Asia."

Maria Repnikova, Associate Professor in Global Communication, Georgia State University

"A nuanced account of China's expanding footprint in central Asia."

International Affairs

"Backlash offers a comprehensive account for both academics and general readers of how China's strategy in Central Asia has evolved over time."

Nikkei Asia

"A sobering, essential read."

Asian Affairs

Media Appearances

Related Reports

Peer-Reviewed Articles