London | 30 July 2026 |  Tsering Passang |

China’s rapid emergence as a global leader in artificial intelligence is not merely a technological success story; it is also a geopolitical strategy with profound implications for the international order. As Beijing expands its influence through AI, digital infrastructure and strategic partnerships, the struggle of Tibetans, Uyghurs, Southern Mongolians, Chinese Christians and other persecuted communities risks becoming increasingly marginalised. The more indispensable China becomes as a technological partner, the more reluctant governments may become to challenge Beijing on questions of human rights.

Much of the international discussion has centred on the strategic rivalry between China and the United States over advanced AI models, semiconductor controls and technological supremacy. Yet this focus risks overlooking a broader and arguably more consequential strategy. China is u...