ABSTRACT
The chapter first outlines the main findings of the preceding chapters concerning the material and ideational impacts and institutional implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Then it assesses the complex eclecticism theoretical-methodological framework, before moving on to an assessment of the utility of the three theoretical frameworks outlined in Chapter 2 based on the evidence produced by the application of the complex eclecticism conceptual toolkit. One finding is that there is an ‘opportunity/threat’ bifurcation in perceptions of the BRI which affects the global implementation of the initiative. This bifurcation translates into two contrasting theoretical explanations of the BRI: either as a neo-Gramscian counter-hegemony based on South-South cooperation or an offensive mercantilist form of ‘debt trap diplomacy.’ Tang’s social evolution paradigm (SEP) is also useful since it provides a framework for understanding the evolving international system, within which the BRI is an institutionalising and transformational factor. Although this book does not provide a single neat answer to questions about the impacts of the BRI, it suggests that it has a chance of being transformative for the developing countries of Asia and Europe, depending on how it is implemented. As the 21st century progresses, the outcomes of China’s flagship foreign policy will be seen with more clarity. If the BRI is to achieve at least some of the Chinese government’s officially stated goals, it should be held to higher standards of transparency and accountability than have been implemented thus far.
