Increased Restrictions on Foreign Researchers in China Amid Evolving Regulations

Foreign researchers in China are facing heightened restrictions in a security-focused environment. Despite not experiencing targeted campaigns like the China Initiative, regulations post-COVID-19 and stringent data laws are presenting various challenges. Departures among foreign academics have increased, with estimates indicating a population of 5,000 to 10,000, significantly lower than in the US. Interaction and collaboration face uncertainty due to ambiguities in data legislation, complicating research efforts and international partnerships.

Recent developments indicate that foreign researchers in China are increasingly confronted with stricter regulations and an environment that emphasizes security. While the nation has yet to implement targeted campaigns similar to the China Initiative, foreign scholars are adapting to new policies post-COVID-19, data legislation, and other challenges. Many continue to work in China but express concerns regarding their experiences in this evolving landscape.

According to an anonymous researcher based in Beijing, the foreign researcher demographic in China has diminished significantly since the onset of the pandemic. “There used to be a lot more foreigners, including foreign scientists, in China before COVID,” the researcher noted, highlighting a substantial increase in departures among peers. Despite these challenges, this individual remains committed to their role, stating, “I love it here.”

Statistics provide insight into the small population of foreign researchers currently in China, estimated at between 5,000 to 10,000, as reported by Halldór Berg Harðarson. In contrast, the United States boasts over 100,000 foreign scholars with similar qualifications. This disparity can be attributed in part to China’s stringent handling of the pandemic, which restricted foreign arrivals and returnees, contributing to a decline in researcher numbers.

The rapid restrictions imposed by the Chinese government during the pandemic were noted as key factors in the exodus of academics. Harðarson cited findings from a Euraxess survey indicating that 40-50% of foreign academics had departed China by autumn 2022, compared to previous years. “It became very restrictive, really quickly,” he remarked,

Several foreign researchers noted the challenges faced during the pandemic, including invasive protocols when testing for COVID-19. Another academic emphasized the hostility they encountered, as foreigners were often unfairly associated with higher infection risks. Such experiences underscored a heightened realization of governmental control among expatriates during this period.

In addition to pandemic-related challenges, recent years have seen the introduction of stringent security legislation impacting data regulation for academics in China. Annina Lattu, a researcher at Peking University, pointed out that these laws create a complex environment, notably affecting the transfer of potentially sensitive research data. Ambiguities surrounding what constitutes “important” data have hampered collaboration efforts between foreign and Chinese researchers.

Rogier Creemers, an expert on Chinese data laws, noted the difficulties posed by the Data Security Law which mandates official checks for certain data exports. However, the specific implications for research activities remain largely unnoted, with current impacts primarily reported among those working with medical data.

Amid increasing restrictions, some research institutions have displayed posters warning of foreign espionage, adding to the unease. Nonetheless, the researcher from southern China observed that he had not personally felt accusations of espionage, contrasting the vigilance of local organizations against that of international firms he has previously encountered.

In summary, foreign researchers in China are navigating an increasingly complex landscape marked by stringent regulations and a heightened focus on state security. The pandemic has significantly influenced the presence of foreign academics, with many leaving the country due to strict lockdown measures and a restrictive environment. New data laws further complicate collaboration, raising questions about information exchange and joint projects. As these developments continue, foreign researchers must adapt to a culture of increased vigilance while striving to maintain their work in China.

Original Source: www.nature.com