Professor Susan Shirk

Susan Shirk is a political scientist, and policy advisor, recognised globally for her expertise in Chinese politics, international relations – specifically U.S.-China diplomacy. As a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs, she played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy towards China. With decades of academic research, government experience, and diplomatic engagement, Susan delivers insightful keynote speeches on China’s leadership, economic reforms, and geopolitical influence. Her groundbreaking book, ‘China: Fragile Superpower’, remains a key reference on how China’s domestic politics impact global stability.

Susan’s journey into the world of Chinese politics began with her PhD in Political Science from MIT in 1974. In 1971, she took her first trip to China as part of the Committee of Concerned Asian Scholars, gaining a first-hand perspective on the country’s political climate. Throughout her career, she has worked to bridge the gap between scholarship and policymaking, providing valuable analysis on China’s evolving role in global affairs. She also founded the Northeast Asia Cooperation Dialogue, a Track II diplomacy initiative that brings together senior officials and academics from the U.S., China, Japan, Russia, and the Koreas.

As a leading authority in her field, Susan has been widely recognised for her contributions. In 2024, she received the Distinguished Contributions to Asian Studies Award from the Association for Asian Studies. Her most recent book, ‘Overreach: How China Derailed Its Peaceful Rise’, won the Lionel Gelber Prize (2023) for best non-fiction book on international affairs and the Silver Medal of the Arthur Ross Book Award (2023) from the Council on Foreign Relations. With numerous published works, including ‘The Political Logic of Economic Reform in China’ (1993) and ‘How China Opened Its Door’ (1994), she has shaped how scholars, policymakers, and business leaders understand China’s internal and external strategies.

Audiences should hire Susan Shirkfor her unparalleled expertise in China’s governance, economic transformations, and global power ambitions. She offers deep, data-driven insights into China’s political risks, trade relations, and international strategy, helping organisations navigate a rapidly shifting global landscape.