Posted 9/18/2023, 4:20:41 AM

Xi Jinping Stokes Spy Fears in China, Risking Paranoia and Distrust

Xi Jinping is pushing citizens to be vigilant against perceived foreign threats and spies infiltrating China. Police and universities are telling people that spies could be anywhere.
This comes after Xi chaired a meeting stressing "extreme-case scenario" national security thinking. China recently passed an anti-spy law and accused firms of spying.
The Ministry of State Security (MSS) is becoming more visible, posting on WeChat about catching spies to encourage security as a priority. This is unusual as the MSS typically stays private.
Citizens are increasingly suspicious of each other. Not knowing pop culture or math mnemonics could mark someone as a potential spy. People are apologizing after falsely suspecting others.
The push risks damaging consequences, with false reporting and bad information. It is creating distrust of foreigners and backfiring on governance.

ndtv.com

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