The Chinese Communist Party’s Involvement with U.S. Chinese Students and Scholars Associations

LJ EADS

Abstract

This paper examines the origins, functions, and evolving role of Chinese Students and Scholars Associations (CSSAs) in the United States, with a particular focus on their entanglement with the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) overseas influence operations. While CSSAs were initially formed to support Chinese nationals abroad and promote cultural exchange, mounting evidence—drawn from U.S. government sources, academic investigations, and Chinese official statements—demonstrates that many CSSAs operate under the direct or indirect guidance of PRC consulates. This coordination often involves consular funding, ideological instruction, political mobilization, and surveillance activities aligned with Beijing’s United Front Work strategy. Through case studies at prominent R1 and R2 U.S. universities, the paper outlines how CSSAs have facilitated counter-protests, organized welcome rallies for PRC leaders, distributed propaganda during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, and engaged in efforts to suppress protected speech. These activities blur the boundary between student organizations and state-directed influence networks. As a result, CSSAs have drawn increasing scrutiny from U.S. institutions and federal agencies concerned with safeguarding academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and national research security. The analysis concludes that CSSAs frequently function not merely as cultural or academic clubs but as instruments of Beijing’s political presence abroad—raising urgent questions for university governance, diplomatic oversight, and U.S. policy.