British Academic Forced to Abandon Critical China Research
Professor Laura Murphy from Sheffield Hallam University has been instructed to cease her research into supply chains and forced labour in China, sparking serious concerns about foreign interference in UK higher education. The prominent academic, whose work focused on human rights issues within Chinese manufacturing, was reportedly pressured to abandon her investigations entirely.
Pattern of Intimidation Extends Beyond Borders
According to Amnesty International UK's research, this incident represents a broader pattern of transnational repression where the Chinese state attempts to silence critics beyond its own borders. Sara Rydkvist, the Hong Kong programme director at Amnesty International, described the situation as deeply alarming, noting that intimidation tactics now directly affect British campuses.
The organisation has documented how Chinese and Hong Kong students studying in the UK frequently live in fear of surveillance and potential retaliation. Many have responded by changing their research focus, avoiding sensitive topics, or completely dropping human rights-related studies to protect themselves and their families.
Universities Remain Reluctant to Speak Out
Educational institutions often demonstrate reluctance to address these concerns publicly, as highlighted by the case of Tara Zhang, a student detained in China for her overseas activism. When approached about her situation, SOAS University of London merely stated they were aware of the reports without issuing any public condemnation or calls for her release.
Francis Bown, commenting on the situation, emphasised that pious words from the UK government would mean nothing to Beijing. He pointed to the proposed construction of the largest Chinese embassy in Europe at Royal Mint Court in London as another concerning development, suggesting the facility would likely contain means to further interfere with national security.
Academic freedom cannot survive if truth becomes negotiable to political pressure from foreign states. Both universities and the UK government face increasing calls to act loudly and publicly to protect those at risk and resist such interference, ensuring British campuses are not bought and bullied into silence.
