In a recent collaboration between the State Department and the Department of Education, Confucius Institutes – state-funded programs accused of spreading Chinese propaganda on American campuses – were closed. The move is cited as an effective model for combating dangerous foreign influence within educational institutions.

Nearly all Confucius Institutes in U.S. campuses have been closed due to government pressure and concerns that they promote Chinese Communist Party propaganda, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions and fears of authoritarian influence in academic settings.

A GAO report reveals that nearly all Confucius Institutes at U.S. universities have been closed since 2019, with fewer than five remaining. Schools cited concerns over potential loss of federal funding and external political pressure related to the institutes’ ties to the Chinese government as key reasons behind their decision.

Research reveals that Confucius Institutes, sponsored by the Chinese government, operate as channels for CCP propaganda. Analysis shows that a significant majority of CI teachers routinely echo official CCP positions, particularly regarding Taiwan, thereby suppressing open political debate and reinforcing authoritarian narratives abroad.

The US Senate unanimously approved a bill on March 6, 2021, that would cut federal funding for colleges hosting Confucius Institutes unless these institutions had full control over their operations. Lawmakers have raised concerns that the Institutes serve as propaganda tools linked to the Chinese government, contributing to authoritarian influence in educational spaces.

On March 5, the U.S. Senate voted to deny Department of Education funding to universities hosting Confucius Institutes unless they meet new oversight requirements, reflecting concerns that these institutions serve as instruments of Chinese state influence and contribute to authoritarian agendas.

The U.S. State Department designated the Confucius Institute U.S. Center (CIUS) as a foreign mission of the People’s Republic of China due to its role in advancing Beijing’s propaganda and malign influence on U.S. campuses. This measure is intended to increase transparency regarding its personnel, funding, and operations, highlighting concerns over political manipulation in educational settings.

A GAO report reviewing 90 agreements between U.S. universities and Confucius Institutes raised concerns that these partnerships, funded by the Chinese Ministry of Education via Hanban, may lead to self-censorship and constrain academic freedom on sensitive topics such as Taiwan and Tibet.