Chinese STEM Students Report Harassment, Forced Repatriation at U.S. Borders
Four Chinese students traveling to the U.S. for academic conferences faced intense interrogation, visa cancellations, and repatriation by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, sources revealed. The students – specializing in AI, cybersecurity, and related fields – were held in a closed room for over 10 hours and questioned about their political affiliations, family ties, and research.
Tech Tensions Take Center Stage
Officers reportedly focused on whether the students were Communist Party of China (CPC) members and demanded details about their work in sensitive tech fields. One student’s electronics were seized without a warrant, while others were denied contact with family for over 30 hours. ‘This isn’t about security – it’s about stifling China’s tech growth,’ an anonymous source told China Daily.
A Pattern of ‘Ideological Bias’?
Over 30 Chinese STEM students, mostly from top U.S. universities, have faced similar treatment since 2020. Many were PhD candidates in AI or software engineering. ‘These interrogations last up to five days, then they’re sent home,’ sources said, calling it a U.S. tactic to maintain ‘tech hegemony.’
Academic Freedom at Risk?
The incidents have sparked fears of a ‘chilling effect’ on global STEM collaboration. Analysts warn such actions could backfire, harming U.S. innovation by deterring international talent. With tensions high, sources advise Chinese students to ‘carefully assess risks’ before pursuing U.S. studies.
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