The UK is reeling from the arrest of a parliamentary researcher accused of spying for China, an event that media outlets are calling an unprecedented escalation by China, although some believe this reaction might be exaggerated. This incident has spotlighted China’s extensive global espionage activities, which have intensified since 2012 under Xi Jinping’s directive of “comprehensive national security.
The UK political sphere is in turmoil following the arrest of a parliamentary researcher suspected of spying for China. The media portrays this as a shocking, unprecedented event, with sources claiming a “major escalation by China.” However, there are doubts over whether these reactions are exaggerated. The situation brings to light the extensive espionage activities that China has been involved in globally, utilizing a “whole-of-state” approach, involving not just officials but sometimes even students abroad.
Since 2012, under Xi Jinping’s rule, China has significantly ramped up its intelligence operations globally. Jinping, emphasizing “comprehensive national security,” has empowered the Ministry of State Security (MSS) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) with more resources and authority. This strategy has led to numerous scandals, including cyber-attacks and other intelligence-gathering methods, aiming to protect Chinese interests and extend its influence worldwide. Despite the shock expressed in UK circles, espionage is a common practice among nation-states, and the UK, with its history rooted in Cold War spy games, is no stranger to such activities.
Recent developments indicate a surge in espionage activities, with the CIA admitting to expanding its spy network in China. This revelation comes despite a significant setback in 2010 when Chinese counter-intelligence dismantled a considerable part of the CIA’s network in China. The current atmosphere hints at a high level of success in western intelligence operations, causing a level of paranoia in Beijing. China is currently engaged in a massive counter-espionage campaign, urging the public to report spies and traitors, reflecting Jinping’s growing concerns over loyalty and potential infiltration within his regime.
In a backdrop of escalating tensions, several high-profile Chinese officials have been arrested or have disappeared, fueling rumors and speculations. While espionage is a suspected reason, corruption seems to be at the core of these incidents. The atmosphere of distrust is evident in the case of the ex-foreign minister, Qin Gang, linked to a scandal involving a TV reporter. Jinping perceives the West’s ideological influence as a severe threat, echoing in his numerous speeches emphasizing a global ideological battle. Western leaders share this sentiment, viewing the current geopolitical landscape as a battleground between democracy and autocracy, reminiscent of the Cold War era. It calls for a realistic, unnaive approach from global leaders, acknowledging the ongoing covert operations without succumbing to shock and outrage.