A Study on the Game Between “People” and the State in Crisis: A Case of “Jacquinot Safe Zone” in Shanghai (1937-1940)

Abstract

Based on the theory of transnational initiative networks, this chapter attempts to explore the mechanism and process of the game between people and countries in crises. Different from the original “initiative network”, the establishment of the “Jacquinot safe zone” during the Anti-Japanese War not only symbolized a way of interaction between human security and national security but also highlighted the political framework of the game between “people” and the state. Jacquinot (Robert Jacquinot de Besange) strengthened his reputation and legitimacy through exchanges with the International Red Cross. At the same time, he negotiated with authorities in China, Japan, and Western countries, forming a strategy of “soft checks and balances” against the state. Jacquinot's (Christian identity) priest identity and his friendship with authorities are “pressure levers” in the game with the state, requiring the state to recognize the “safe zone”.