International Security Challenges Posed by HIV/AIDS: Implications for China

Emerging infectious diseases are increasingly playing a role in China's evolving concept of security. HIV/AIDS poses both immediate and long-term threats to China's security and ultimately, stability, particularly within the context of China's domestic reforms, the relentless pressure of globalisation and multiple challenges it presents. While it is unlikely that HIV/AIDS by itself will fundamentally or dramatically undermine China's security, the ability of the government to prevent the spread of infectious diseases is not assured, raising concerns about the potentially detrimental long-term effects of HIV/AIDS on society, the economy and relations with neighbouring states.