Chinese Transnational Repression Is a Real Issue-but Shujun Wang Is a Bad Example
Briefly

The article discusses the case of Wang Shujun, an elderly American historian incorrectly portrayed as a spy on 60 Minutes, highlighting flaws in the U.S. government's pursuit of Chinese espionage. While transnational repression by the Chinese Communist Party is a serious issue, Wang's prosecution raises doubts about the effectiveness of identifying and pursuing actual threats. His background as a pro-democracy activist further complicates the narrative, as it suggests the risk of targeting the wrong individuals in the fight against genuine espionage.
Wang’s case exemplifies the blurred line between legitimate investigation and wrongful persecution, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the U.S. strategy against real Chinese espionage.
The portrayal of Wang as a quintessential spy distracts from the genuine, pressing issues of transnational repression faced by Chinese dissidents, diluting the focus on actual threats.
Read at The Nation
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