China’s influence on the Middle Eastern stance on Xinjiang: Case studies of Saudi Arabia and Iran

Tea Gugo

Master's thesis

Abstract:

For years, Xinjiang has faced unrest affecting its Uyghur Muslim population, intensifying regional instability. The Chinese government suppresses separatist movements and "religious activities," restricting freedoms. Arab states denounce Xinjiang terrorist attacks and reject external interference, but individual reactions are often absent, a phenomenon this thesis explores. Despite ongoing Uyghur internment and Han Chinese influx, China persists with its policies, and the Middle East remains unlikely to intervene. This thesis aims to reveal the Uyghurs' struggle and investigate the Middle East's complicity, particularly Iran and Saudi Arabia, in China's control over Xinjiang. It asks: To what extent does the Middle East support China's interests at the expense of Uyghur Muslims? A qualitative review using various literature and case studies of Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as their comparison, analyzes the geopolitical, economic, and diplomatic factors shaping their responses. The goal is to uncover patterns and contradictions in regional dynamics and contribute to academic and policy debates.

Abstract:

For years, Xinjiang has faced unrest affecting its Uyghur Muslim population, intensifying regional instability. The Chinese government suppresses separatist movements and "religious activities," restricting freedoms. Arab states denounce Xinjiang terrorist attacks and reject external interference, but individual reactions are often absent, a phenomenon this thesis explores. Despite ongoing Uyghur internment and Han Chinese influx, China persists with its policies, and the Middle East remains unlikely to intervene. This thesis aims to reveal the Uyghurs' struggle and investigate the Middle East's complicity, particularly Iran and Saudi Arabia, in China's control over Xinjiang. It asks: To what extent does the Middle East support China's interests at the expense of Uyghur Muslims? A qualitative review using various literature and case studies of Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as their comparison, analyzes the geopolitical, economic, and diplomatic factors shaping their responses. The goal is to uncover patterns and contradictions in regional dynamics and contribute to academic and policy debates.

Keywords

Uyghur, International System, Regional Power

Keywords

International System, Regional Power, Uyghur

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 26. 6. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 11. 9. 2024
• Supervisor: Jeremy Alan Garlick
• Reader: Pavel Přikryl

Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze

Master programme:
International and Diplomatic Studies