Part 13/14:
Finally, a military failure in Taiwan could undermine the Chinese Communist Party's legitimacy. A narrative of defeat contradicts the solemn promise of unification that has been ingrained in Chinese political discourse for decades. There lies a risk of civil unrest; failure in Taiwan could embolden separatist movements in regions like Tibet and Xinjiang and foster internal discontent against the ruling party.
A lost military campaign might not only challenge Xi's grip on power but also engender demographic challenges. An economic shock could lead to further declines in birth rates already exacerbated by China's declining population, creating a vicious cycle of deterioration needing urgent redress.