When the diaspora resists Beijing’s transnational controls, dissidents’ tires are slashed, activists are harassed and threatened, international students’ study permits are declined and passport applications are rejected. Overt criticism of Beijing or pointing out the PRC’s influence operations could cost people career opportunities, business prospects or research funding. They could be barred from going to the PRC, and even their personal safety and that of their extended family members could be jeopardized. Is it any wonder that many people self-censor due to Beijing’s effective global system of control and surveillance?
Therefore, I would like to make the following recommendations for the committee to consider.
First, take a whole-of-society approach to addressing foreign interference as it is interconnected within all facets of Canadian society. Overlooking any aspect will only harm the most vulnerable communities.
Second, provide anonymous and secured spaces in which people can voice concerns in order to minimize repercussions from hostile foreign actors.
Third, engage with marginalized communities and centre cultural and linguistic sensitivity in your approach.
Our testimony today focuses on the communities' lived experience and expert knowledge of Beijing's foreign influence activities. I also want to take this opportunity to urge policy-makers to rebuild trust with diaspora communities, many of which have long felt unheard and erased.
It would also be naive to think that the PRC is the only nation engaging in these actions. We urge the committee to pursue country-agnostic solutions and also to look to the other diasporas for their insights.
Thank you again for the opportunity to testify.
We look forward to answering your questions.