[rsynnott]

The CCP is quite unlikely to come out with a quote that they're cracking down because they feel insecure in their position. Very unusual for any regime to admit that. But it seems the most obvious reading of the situation.

> I think Xi is quite clear on his view of China's place in the world

Yes, Xi may have a view. Again, the problem for the regime, and presumably the reason for Xi's crackdowns, is that China, as in the population, is less clear on its view of Xi's place in China.