Mapping Global China, For and By the People with Ivan Franceschini, Stella Hongzhang and Mark Grimsditch

A  new approach to mapping the Belt and Road Initiative has arrived! The People's Map of China combines a broad, global representation of Chinese investments across a map of where they occur across the world with deep dive research into specific projects and their social and environmental implications. Designed by a coalition of nongovernmental organizations, journalists, trade unions, academics, and public contributors, the People's Map aims not only to improve understandings of global China but also to serve as a tool for advocacy for  stakeholders affected by Chinese projects.

Erik & Juliet speak with Mark Grimsditch, Stella HongZhang, and Ivan Franceschini - three of the creators - about its recent launch, the design and creation, and the intended uses of the People's Map.

Access the People's Map Here

And see our recommendations:

Ivan: "Chinese workers allege forced labor, abuses in Xi's 'Belt and Road' program." Lili Kuo & Alicia Chen. Washington Post.

Erik: "Sound of Metal" film

Juliet:

1) HongZhang's article in Panda Paw Dragon Claw, "China's manifesto for leadership in global development"

2) Webinar: TNI’s Agrarian Conversations Series, “Global Food Regimes and China”

3) Webinar: The BU Global Development Policy Center’s latest webinar with Jake Werner, “The Sources of China’s Vision for Global Economic Governance“

Mark: Get off Twitter once in awhile, and watch Star Trek: The Next Generation 

~Special thanks to Jada Kissi, who joined the Belt and Road Pod team in Dec 2020 and edited this episode~