Conflict in Sub-Saharan Africa: the impact of Chinese aid as external intervention

This study examines the impact of Chinese aid on conflict in Sub-Saharan Africa during the period 2001-2021. Chinese aid is different from traditional aid, as its largely aims at financial assistance for infrastructure projects. These large-scale financial flows are argued to create economic and social imbalances in recipient countries, which in turn can fuel conflict. Drawing from the literature on external intervention and conflict, the study finds that Chinese aid is associated with higher level of conflict in Sub-Saharan Africa at district level, particularly the repression of civilians. By introduce a spatial analysis model, research finds the decentralise effect in the areas inhabited by powerless ethnic groups. It then discusses the potential causal channels, suggesting for future research.