China’s ‘grey-zone’ warfare tactics against Taiwan | Explained

Last Updated17/06/2024

Since the new Taiwanese president has assumed office, all eyes have been on the rocky start to his tenure.
While China’s belligerent response to Mr. Lai’s “pro-independence” and “secessionist” statements was striking, it has now resorted to a sophisticated ploy to respond to Mr. Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
This is often referred to as ‘grey-zone’ warfare, which comprises elements that frustrate Taiwan in a sustained manner.

Grey zone warfare generally means a middle, unclear space that exists between direct conflict and peace in international relations.
Multitude of activities fall into this zone — from nefarious economic activities, influence operations, and cyberattacks to mercenary operations, assassinations, and disinformation campaigns.
Other experts include economic actions too, such as debt traps and economic sanctions.
Activities in the grey zone have always been a feature of great-power competition.
Proxy wars, destabilizing insurgencies, legal warfare (lawfare), and information warfare—by adversaries and allies alike—have been a feature of this conflict.
Experts claim that such methods are often employed by parties who have not had access to massive resources or power, traditionally.
Therefore, such tactics can help gain an advantage over a more technically well-equipped adversary that is more used to conventional warfare.