The Institutional Dynamics of International Development Cooperation and China's Aid in Africa

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Substantial volumes of literature have explored shifts in international development cooperation and the question of how “non‐traditional donors” challenge the authority and legitimacy of the established architecture. Using institutional theory, this article examines the extent to which the institutional logics of neoliberalism interact with China's approach to development in Africa. The article argues that the extent of interaction depends on the compatibility between the institutional logics of neoliberalism and Chinese interests in Africa. China's gradual adoption of some institutional logics—such as ownership and alignment, mutual accountability, and harmonization—is not because China believes in the institutional logics, but rather because the adoption is a means toward the achievement of Chinese needs. Related Articles Ameyaw‐Brobbey, Thomas. 2024. “The Media in China–Africa Public Relations: Assessing China's Attractiveness beyond Economic Development Assistance.” Politics & Policy 52(3): 551–72. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12596 . Duggan, Niall. 2020. “China—The Champion of the Developing World: A Study of China's New Development Model and its Role in Changing Global Economic Governance.” Politics & Policy 48(5): 836–58. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12377 . Hodzi, Obert, and John H. S. Åberg. 2020. “Introduction to the Special Issue: Strategic Deployment of the China Model in Africa.” Politics & Policy 48(5): 804–14. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12378 .