MEĐUNARODNI PROBLEMI

Ideology, Security and Ideological Security: Theoretical and Practical Aspects of the Case of the PR China

Stanarević Svetlana (University of Belgrade – Faculty of Security Studies, Belgrade, Serbia), stanarevic@fb.bg.ac.rs
Petrović Dejan (University of Belgrade – Faculty of Security Studies, Belgrade, Serbia), dejan.petrovic@fb.bg.ac.rs

This paper examines the relationship between ideology and security as key aspects of contemporary security systems, where ideology functions as a fundamental framework for shaping protection strategies and maintaining social order. Although at first glance the concepts of ideology and security may appear separate, their interconnection remains insufficiently studied, especially within the context of international politics and security studies. The concept of ideological security emphasizes the importance of preserving a unified ideological harmony and stability as essential means of protection against internal and external threats. In the Chinese context, this relationship is reflected through the integration of ideological security into a broader national security strategy, where ideology is used as a tool to strengthen unity, stability, and the legitimacy of authority. The practical implementation of this concept includes measures such as information control, the promotion of state values, and monitoring of social movements, aimed at safeguarding political and social order. This interconnected framework highlights the role of ideology as a means of preserving national identity and stability in a complex global environment, with particular regard to the Chinese approach to integrating ideological security into a comprehensive national security strategy. Therefore, our primary research question is: how is the concept of ideological security integrated into China’s national security strategies, and what are its implications for internal stability and international relations? The research employs qualitative content analysis, including relevant academic works, international sources, as well as the analysis of government documents, strategies, and public statements by Chinese authorities. Based on data collected from secondary sources, the analysis focuses on identifying key themes, patterns, and understanding the role of ideology in security policies.

Keywords: ideological security, national security, national security strategies, stability, identity, international relations