On October 28, 2026, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced the elimination of 80 propaganda structures linked to China operating in universities across the country. These organizations were identified over the past two months in 30 universities and were shut down due to national security threats.
Reasons for Elimination
According to Hegseth's statement, these organizations continued their activities under new names following the closure of the Confucius Institutes. These institutions had previously faced criticism for promoting Chinese propaganda and influence within the US academic environment.
Details of the Closure
The elimination of these structures is part of a broader US strategy to counter foreign influence in education. Specifically, measures have been taken to:
- Identify and close organizations that pose a threat to national security.
- Ensure transparency in university operations.
- Protect American students from foreign propaganda.
Public Reaction
This news has elicited mixed reactions in society. Some experts believe that such actions are necessary to protect national interests, while others express concerns about the restriction of academic freedom.