Report Exposes Chinese Influence in UK Academia

A recent UK-China Transparency (UKCT) report, as detailed in Phayul, exposes Beijing's systematic efforts to undermine academic freedom and shape discussions about China in British universities. The report, titled "Cold Crises: Academic Freedom and Interference in China Studies in the UK", highlights the use of intimidation, surveillance, and financial leverage by the Chinese government.

According to insights from 50 China studies scholars, the report paints a grim picture of coercion, where Chinese students and academics face pressure to report on politically sensitive conversations. Such tactics include threats against families, online harassment, and pressure from Chinese Communist Party officials.

The report accuses Chinese Students and Scholars Associations of acting as surveillance tools, creating a climate of fear. Moreover, reliance on Chinese tuition fees allegedly influences university leadership's stance on sensitive issues, with some institutions accused of stifling critical research to maintain financial ties with China.

Professor Gregory Lee emphasized the report's significance, warning that UK institutions risk complicity in spreading China's propagandist image. The report's release coincides with UK legislation aimed at bolstering academic freedom and addressing foreign partnerships that threaten ideological independence.

Similar concerns about Chinese influence extend globally, reflecting fears noted in countries like Australia, Canada, Germany, and the US. These nations have also reported on tactics of surveillance and pressure from Chinese authorities within academic settings.

(With inputs from agencies.)