Chinese Influence Operations in Western Democracies: A Growing Concern

Chinese Influence Operations in Western Democracies

A prominent lawyer in Britain has come under scrutiny, accused of attempting to further Beijing’s interests within the halls of Parliament. Similarly, an aide to a far-right politician in Germany is suspected of leaking sensitive information regarding the workings of the European Parliament to Chinese operatives. In Canada, a politician faces allegations of receiving assistance from the Chinese Consulate to mobilize large groups of international students from China to support him during party elections.

The recent indictment of Linda Sun, a former senior aide in the New York governor’s office, for allegedly using her position to benefit the Chinese government, has brought renewed attention to the troubling trend of Chinese foreign interference in Western democracies. This pattern of covert operations is not isolated; accusations of similar meddling have also emerged in Australia, New Zealand, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands over the past few years.

Analysts have identified a consistent modus operandi associated with these clandestine activities. Typically, China seeks to recruit individuals from Chinese diaspora communities, enabling them to infiltrate political systems or to suppress voices of dissent against Beijing’s policies. These operations are not merely limited to political manipulation; rather, they form part of a broader strategy.

Historically, covert Chinese operations abroad have primarily focused on acquiring industrial secrets and cutting-edge technology in critical sectors, including military, aviation, and telecommunications. The overarching goal of these efforts is to diminish the technological and strategic advantages held by the United States and its allies.