US lawmaker, scholars criticize use of CCP's propaganda books in American universities

These materials, often integrated into Chinese language and cultural programmes, reflect the CCP’s political agenda.

Critics argue that such content serves as a means for spreading Chinese government propaganda and expanding its soft power within US academic institutions.

The use of CCP-backed educational resources in universities raises questions about academic freedom, transparency, and the long-term impact on students' perceptions of China.

This trend is part of a broader strategy by the Chinese regime to influence global public opinion and promote its political narrative through education.

The increasing awareness of CCP propaganda in US universities has triggered reactions from lawmakers, government officials, and advocacy groups.

Bipartisan efforts in Congress have sought to limit the influence of Chinese government-backed educational programs on campuses.

Recently, a lawmaker and several scholars called for more transparency and accountability in Chinese language textbooks used in US colleges, after it was revealed that a commonly used textbook, 'Discussing Everything Chinese', contained CCP propaganda.

Cynthia Sun, a researcher from the Falun Dafa Information Centre, discovered that this textbook, used for over 20 years at prominent institutions like Yale University, promotes anti-Falun Gong propaganda.

Falun Gong, a spiritual practice based on Buddhist traditions, was severely repressed by the CCP starting in 1999 under Jiang Zemin’s leadership.

Falun Gong practitioners have since faced detention, torture, and persecution.

During an event at the International Spy Museum in Washington, Sun raised the issue of the controversial textbook with Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Mich.), chairman of the House Select Committee on the CCP.

Moolenaar acknowledged China’s broader efforts to infiltrate various sectors in the US, including education, and stressed the need for greater transparency and accountability.

While legislative action could address some issues, he emphasized the importance of public awareness and federal oversight through hearings.

The discovery of propaganda in educational resources highlights the ongoing challenge of foreign influence in US higher education.

The use of materials like 'Discussing Everything Chinese' raises concerns about academic integrity, transparency, and the potential for students to be exposed to biased narratives.

Critics argue that universities should take stronger measures to ensure that educational content is free from foreign political influence and reflects a diverse range of perspectives.

Many Chinese language programmes in American universities rely on textbooks and resources provided by Chinese publishers or governmental agencies.

These materials often portray China’s political system, governance, and history in a way that aligns with the CCP’s propaganda.

Chinese state-controlled publishers, which follow the CCP’s guidelines on educational content, ensure that sensitive topics are avoided or framed to support the regime’s narrative, perpetuating a one-sided view of China.

The introduction of CCP-approved content into US classrooms undermines academic freedom by exposing students to a biased narrative, potentially normalizing China's authoritarian political system and diminishing awareness of the CCP's ongoing repression and censorship.

Furthermore, the presence of such content may deter scholars from addressing politically sensitive topics, creating a climate of self-censorship that limits the diversity of perspectives presented to students.

The CCP’s efforts to influence educational systems abroad are part of a larger global soft power campaign.

Through cultural diplomacy, language programs, and media outlets, China aims to shape international perceptions of its political system and promote its vision of global leadership.

In American universities, this strategy subtly integrates pro-CCP content into language and cultural programmes, shaping the views of future leaders, policymakers, and scholars.

While educational exchange can foster mutual understanding between nations, the introduction of biased materials into academic settings raises serious concerns about transparency and the integrity of education.

Experts on China warn that the presence of CCP propaganda in US universities poses a significant threat to academic freedom and critical thinking.

Universities must remain vigilant to ensure that educational resources reflect diverse perspectives and are not used to advance the interests of authoritarian regimes.