China’s United Front Work Department (UFWD), a strategic tool of the Communist Party, is under scrutiny for its international activities linked to espionage and influence among overseas Chinese. With prominent cases like Yang Tengbo and Christine Lee, concerns are rising in the West about Beijing’s efforts to manipulate public narratives and suppress dissent abroad. The UFWD’s nebulous role complicates the boundary between influence and espionage, especially under Xi Jinping’s assertive leadership. As Western nations respond with stricter laws, the complexities of China’s outreach efforts present ongoing challenges for international relations.

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