Concerns Raised Over Chinese Influence on UK University Campuses

Concerns Raised Over Chinese Influence on UK University Campuses
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A new report highlights concerns that Chinese students at UK universities may be pressured to monitor classmates and suppress discussions on topics sensitive to the Chinese government, the BBC reports. The UK-China Transparency (UKCT) think tank’s survey of China studies academics also revealed warnings from Chinese officials to avoid certain subjects in lectures.

The report comes shortly after new UK legislation took effect, placing greater responsibility on universities to protect academic freedom and free speech, with significant fines for non-compliance.

The Office for Students (OfS) emphasized these freedoms as fundamental and is strengthening its powers to address foreign interference, including scrutiny of Confucius Institutes—partnership organizations funded by the Chinese government that promote Chinese culture on campuses but face criticism over alleged political ties.

UKCT’s findings include reports of visa denials for academics researching sensitive issues, harassment of family members in China, and intimidation by Chinese officials or visiting scholars. Sensitive topics range from politics to technology and human rights concerns in regions like Xinjiang.

Universities UK and government officials stress the importance of safeguarding academic freedom. Skills Minister Jacqui Smith affirmed that attempts to intimidate or harass in the UK will not be tolerated, underscoring the non-negotiable nature of free speech in British higher education institutions.