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Chinese students become part of a grandiose antispyware program.
In early September, when students were returning to Chinese universities, they were confronted with an unexpected program: spy detection courses. At Tsinghua University, teachers and students were instructed on how to become a "line of defense" against foreign forces. Beijing University of Technology even hosted a national security themed celebration.
Active game based on patriotism
The situation is getting more interesting as the Chinese Ministry of State Security has created a WeChat account for the first time, where it publishes national security advice. The initiative comes after a National Security Council meeting in May this year, at which Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed the importance of"scenario-based thinking in extreme circumstances."
Political implications
"Using collective fear to create political and social cohesion is a very dangerous game," said Katja Drinhausen of the Mercator Institute for Chinese Studies in Berlin.
Growing suspicion
An active antispyware campaign generates an increase in suspicion among citizens. In Henan Province, police suggested testing neighbors ' patriotism by asking them questions about pop culture. Such a situation can lead to false reports and, as a result, worsen the quality of work of security agencies, experts warn.
Curbing foreign investment
In parallel with the growing suspicion of foreigners, relations with foreign investors are becoming more complicated. This is contrary to China's stated plans to attract foreign investment and boost the private sector.
In the context of an ideological struggle with the United States and an economic slowdown, such a policy can become a factor of additional social tension in the country.
The situation is alarming not only within China, but also on the world stage. Experts have already expressed concerns that such initiatives could also lead to massive espionage on the Internet and the use of cyber weapons against other countries.
In early September, when students were returning to Chinese universities, they were confronted with an unexpected program: spy detection courses. At Tsinghua University, teachers and students were instructed on how to become a "line of defense" against foreign forces. Beijing University of Technology even hosted a national security themed celebration.
Active game based on patriotism
The situation is getting more interesting as the Chinese Ministry of State Security has created a WeChat account for the first time, where it publishes national security advice. The initiative comes after a National Security Council meeting in May this year, at which Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed the importance of"scenario-based thinking in extreme circumstances."
Political implications
"Using collective fear to create political and social cohesion is a very dangerous game," said Katja Drinhausen of the Mercator Institute for Chinese Studies in Berlin.
Growing suspicion
An active antispyware campaign generates an increase in suspicion among citizens. In Henan Province, police suggested testing neighbors ' patriotism by asking them questions about pop culture. Such a situation can lead to false reports and, as a result, worsen the quality of work of security agencies, experts warn.
Curbing foreign investment
In parallel with the growing suspicion of foreigners, relations with foreign investors are becoming more complicated. This is contrary to China's stated plans to attract foreign investment and boost the private sector.
In the context of an ideological struggle with the United States and an economic slowdown, such a policy can become a factor of additional social tension in the country.
The situation is alarming not only within China, but also on the world stage. Experts have already expressed concerns that such initiatives could also lead to massive espionage on the Internet and the use of cyber weapons against other countries.
