Washington, DC — Stimson is pleased to announce that Michael Cunningham has joined the China Program as a Senior Fellow, bringing deep knowledge and sharp insights into China’s domestic politics and foreign policy, cross‑Strait relations, and Taiwan’s political landscape.
His research portfolio reflects extensive on‑the‑ground experience, shaped by significant time living and working in both China and Taiwan. During his time in Asia, he advised businesses on political, operational, and security risks in their regional operations. Before joining Stimson, Cunningham was a Research Fellow in the Heritage Foundation’s Asia Studies Center, covering a wide range of political and foreign policy issues in mainland China and Taiwan. His commentary and analysis have contributed to public understanding of China‑Taiwan dynamics and the evolving geopolitical environment in Asia. Cunningham is fluent in Mandarin Chinese and Portuguese, enabling him to work with original language sources in his research. He also serves as a Nonresident Fellow at National Taiwan University’s Center for China Studies.
“We are delighted to have Michael joining the Stimson Center as a Senior Fellow and bringing his deep expertise on China and Taiwan,” said Yun Sun, Senior Fellow and Director of the China Program.
“We are pleased to welcome Michael to our China team,” said Brian Finlay, President and CEO of Stimson. “Stimson has been proud to be home to some of the trusted China expertise in town, and Michael’s arrival only further strengthens our bench of dedicated scholars led by the incomparable Yun Sun.”
Cunningham will contribute research and analysis as part of the China Program’s continuing mission to advance informed dialogue and nuanced understanding on one of the world’s most consequential regions.
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