1、 https:/crsreports.congress.gov Updated December 2, 2021Confucius Institutes in the United States: Selected IssuesThe Peoples Republic of China (PRC)s Confucius Institutes, which offer Chinese language instruction in universities around the world, have been the subject of controversy since appearing
2、 on U.S. campuses in 2005, particularly for their perceived effects on academic freedom and lack of transparency. They have attracted further attention in recent years as the broader U.S.-China relationship has deteriorated. Some Members of Congress and others have alleged that they may play a role
3、in Chinas efforts to influence public opinion abroad, recruit “influence agents” on U.S. campuses, and engage in cyber espionage and intellectual property theft. PRC officials and scholars deny such charges, and suggest that the Institutes have become victims of a U.S. “Cold War mentality.” Supporte
4、rs of the Institutes emphasize that they provide Chinese language and cultural programs that benefit students, universities, and surrounding communities and which may not otherwise be available. Policy Developments A provision in the National Defense Authorization Act for FY2019 (P.L. 115-232, Secti