Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-11-2025

Publication Title

IPJ

Pages

1-24

Abstract

This paper examines the evolving dynamics of cross-strait relations through the lens of securitization theory, focusing on China’s strategic deployment of what it calls the Kinmen Model and its implications for regional security. While existing discourse predominantly concentrates on a potential full-scale invasion of Taiwan, this study shifts attention to the strategic significance of the outlying islands and the nuanced employment of securitization to exert indirect control. Utilizing Vuori’s (2008) framework for analyzing securitization in non-democratic contexts, this research conducts a discourse analysis of nineteen Chinese language media sources to dissect the speech acts employed by Chinese media and their intended political functions. The study identifies a critical gap in the literature regarding a “Fifth Period” of Kinmen’s history, characterized by a transition from border infiltration to a more aggressive securitization strategy, contributing to a deeper understanding of China’s gray zone tactics and the securitization of territorial claims.

Rights

© 2025 Arizona Board of Regents / Arizona State University

Upon publication, copyright for all works in Inter Populum is assigned to the Arizona Board of Regents for and on behalf of Arizona State University. Authors may share their published work on personal or institutional platforms with proper attribution. The views expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of Arizona State University or the Arizona Board of Regents.

Original Publication Citation

Murphy, I. (2025). Securitizing Kinmen: China’s gray zone strategy and the evolution of the Kinmen model. IPJ, 1-25. https://interpopulum.org/securitizing-kinmen-chinas-gray-zone-strategy-and-the-evolution-of-the-kinmen-model/

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