China’s Economic Influence in International Organizations and Consequences for Iran

The concept of power has consistently been a focal point in international relations and political theories, particularly within the realist school of thought. Traditionally, power discussions centered primarily on military capabilities; however, the dimensions of power have evolved, with economic power emerging as a critical factor in international politics. In recent years, China has experienced unprecedented economic growth, demonstrating resilience in the face of global financial crises and the COVID-19 pandemic. This research investigates the impact of China s economic power on its standing within international organizations. It first outlines key indicators of economic power-such as GDP based on purchasing power parity, current account balance, foreign currency reserves, patents, and oil trade balance-and examines their influence on policy. Subsequently, the study analyzes China s increasing presence and influence in major international institutions, including the United Nations and its specialized agencies (e.g., the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization). The findings indicate that China s economic power has significantly enhanced its position within these institutions, thereby strengthening its role in the international system.