Concerns Rise Over China’s Influence in the United Nations

There are increasing worries regarding China’s expanding influence within the United Nations, particularly following a recent report from the House of Commons Select Committee on China. This report suggests that the Chinese Communist Party may be leveraging financial resources, personnel, and peacekeeping missions to further its strategic goals.

The document, which was acquired before its formal release, outlines what lawmakers term a “coordinated campaign” by China to reshape the UN from the inside. This includes funneling more funds, placing Chinese nationals in key positions, and employing state-affiliated organizations to sway outcomes in favor of China.

One of the key findings of the report focuses on China’s engagement in UN peacekeeping operations. It suggests that as part of a broader strategy to convert influence into tangible power, China is ramping up its military deployments in regions important to its economic interests, especially in Africa.

For instance, South Sudan exemplifies this trend. A significant portion of the nation’s oil production is sent to China, which has considerable investments in the country through government-backed companies. The report emphasizes that the concentration of Chinese peacekeepers in South Sudan allows China to “secure its national interests” while maintaining legitimacy under the UN umbrella.

Importantly, the report does not claim that China is breaking any UN rules. Instead, it accuses the Chinese government of “abusing” its role in the UN system to create outcomes that benefit itself.

The bipartisan commission, chaired by John Moolener (R-Mich.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), has been investigating the extent of China’s influence in international bodies for several months. Moolener has previously cautioned that China appears intent on “reshaping the international system to suit its interests.”

The findings are based on a thorough review of Chinese government documents, UN data, academic studies, and open-source reports.

Moreover, the report notes a significant increase in China’s financial contributions to the UN over the last two decades. Its share has surged from about 2% of the UN budget to over 20%. This substantial rise is expected to enhance Beijing’s sway during budget discussions and decision-making processes, especially amid regular funding shortages at the UN.

It argues that China is redefining UN norms to further its national agenda and using its financial clout to influence budget negotiations and mandates. An example highlighted involves delays in Chinese funding during a budget dispute, leading to setbacks that postponed human rights investigations, demonstrating how financial issues can disrupt UN effectiveness.

Additionally, the report raises flags about the increasing number of Chinese nationals being placed in senior UN roles, implying that this might allow China to “occupy key institutions” and steer decision-making from within.

The recruitment rules of the UN enable member states to put forth candidates for senior positions, providing avenues for countries like China to expand their influence through standard selection processes.

Another aspect examined is the role of GONGOs (Government Organized Non-Governmental Organizations), which, according to the report, are being used to inject political influence into UN processes while masquerading as independent civil society entities.

As these findings emerge, U.S. officials are increasingly prioritizing the need to counteract China’s impact in international organizations. The committee insists on transparency, suggests bolstered U.S. leadership, and emphasizes collaboration with allies to mitigate China’s growing presence in the UN system.

Interestingly, this report comes amid broader questions about the U.S. role at the UN, particularly under President Trump. In a speech to the UN General Assembly in September 2025, he questioned its purpose, alleging that it tends to issue “very strongly worded letters” that fail to lead to action, famously stating, “Empty words don’t solve wars.”

As the largest financial supporter of the UN, the U.S. contributes about 22% of the budget but is also dealing with billions of dollars in unpaid contributions. This places Washington in a unique position — both as the biggest donor and one of the largest debtors, allowing it to influence everything from budget conflicts to international efforts against China.

Efforts have been made to reach out to the UN and China’s mission for their comments regarding these issues. Meanwhile, Chinese officials have previously defended their involvement in the UN, asserting that they are advocates of multilateralism and international cooperation.