Italy
* As some Indicators can be skipped where data is unavailable, the maximum overall and Domain scores are not identical for each country. Country rankings are generated from ratios of the maximum scores and the achieved scores.
The Indicators have been classified by the stage of the influence process at which they occur. Some Indicators correspond to exposure to PRC influence, e.g. the presence of Confucius Institutes. Others test for pressure – such as visa denials to academics or journalists. Finally, some Indicators capture the effect of PRC influence, such as national policy changes in favor of PRC interests.
The individual Layer scores for each country are tallied and displayed via rankings.
Exposure
Exposure assesses the conditions that make the target country vulnerable to PRC's influence, e.g. in terms of economic dependence, or the receiving of some form of benefit.
Pressure
Pressure measures the actions that the PRC directly or indirectly exerts over the target country in order to change the behavior of people in the target country, e.g. in terms of threatening economic punishment to provoke/prevent a political decision.
Effect
Effect evaluates the degree of accommodations the target country makes to the PRC, and the actual effects and impacts on the target country.
In 2021, Italy had a GDP per capita of US$35,551 and a total population of 59.1 million people, with the Chinese population comprising 330,500 people (not including Chinese who are naturalized as citizens of host countries, or children born locally of Chinese descent).
Italy established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1970. Italy was ranked 58th in Reporters Without Borders' 2021 World Press Freedom Index, and free in Freedom House's 2021 Global Freedom Status, with a score of 90/100.
Percentage scores do not suggest some degree out of a “completely influenced” level of 100%. The percentages express the country’s score out of the total achievable amount based on the Indicators for each Domain.
- Media47.7% / 30.1%
- Academia47.7% / 34%
- Economy18.2% / 33.6%
- Society29.5% / 23.6%
- Military9.1% / 23.4%
- Law Enforcement59.1% / 30.2%
- Technology36.4% / 40.8%
- Domestic Politics36.4% / 37.2%
- Foreign Policy31.8% / 41%
Media
The Media Domain evaluates how PRC entities influence public debate and media coverage about the PRC in the Index country.
In my country, there are media organizations that belong to the World Chinese Media (世界华文媒体) network.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
- https://news.cgtn.com/news/3d3d414f3245544e33457a6333566d54/index.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are journalists or media organizations which are members of the Belt and Road Media Cooperation Alliance/Union, the Belt and Road News Alliance, or other Belt and Road media networks that connected to PRC (e.g. Belt and Road Media Community, Belt and Road Journalists Network, Belt and Road News Network, or B&R TV Networks).
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
- https://www.china-files.com/go-east-speciale-il-2021-delle-relazioni-italia-cina/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have attended all-expenses paid media tours in PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
71 countries answered this indicator; 11 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
- https://italian.cri.cn/1781/2018/06/26/481s322813.htm
Supplementary Notes
Few references to who paid for the trips
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have received trainings from PRC state-owned media or PRC-connected entities.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://tfipost.com/2020/03/china-is-training-journalists-from-india-and-other-countries-to-peddle-chinese-propaganda/
- https://www.ifj.org/fileadmin/user_upload/210512_IFJ_The_Covid_Story_Report_-_FINAL.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC state-media (including print, radio, and video) is broadcasted or distributed in a local language.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.ned.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Chinas-Global-Media-Footprint-Democratic-Responses-to-Expanding-Authoritarian-Influence-Cook-Feb-2021.pdf
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are local media outlets wholly or partly owned by PRC citizens or corporations.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.ilmessaggero.it/economia/flash_news/class_editori_crea_joint_venture_la_cinese_hmi-704958.html
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
- https://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1603954235127688447&wfr=spider&for=pc
- http://dw.chinanews.com/chinanews/hmtopic.jsp?cname=ydlxhsb
- http://www.ouhuatimes.cn/html/muying/
Supplementary Notes
There are two small local mediaoutlets 意大利新华时报 (see URL4 above) & 欧华联合时报 (see URL5 above) written in Chines targeting Chinese Diaspora community (we suppose) in Italy.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are media outlets that have delivered cheap or free contents provided by PRC state-fund media.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.visiontimes.com/2021/06/12/china-infiltrated-italys-media-outlets-to-influence-public-opinion.html
- https://www.ifj.org/fileadmin/user_upload/210512_IFJ_The_Covid_Story_Report_-_FINAL.pdf
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are regular PRC state-media or government advertisements inserted within local newspapers, online news websites or social media.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.ifj.org/fileadmin/user_upload/210512_IFJ_The_Covid_Story_Report_-_FINAL.pdf
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are journalists who have had pressure exerted on them by the PRC, including (but not limited to) public denouncement, revocation of journalist ID, denial of visa.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://bitterwinter.org/choking-on-spaghetti-what-went-wrong-in-xis-italian-visit/
- https://www.ilfoglio.it/politica/2019/03/23/news/la-solidarieta-della-politica-sulle-minacce-cinesi-alla-giornalista-del-foglio-il-silenzio-di-lega-e-m5s-245020/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are incidents of media outlets censoring views critical of the PRC government.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2143.pdf
- https://www.ilfoglio.it/politica/2019/03/23/news/la-solidarieta-della-politica-sulle-minacce-cinesi-alla-giornalista-del-foglio-il-silenzio-di-lega-e-m5s-245020/
- https://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1703991493660074818&wfr=spider&for=pc
Supplementary Notes
In 2021 some Italian media including: Classeditori、「希肖内传媒集团」、「日報」(might be dailyonline.it)、Money.it、「"意大利新闻在线" 母集团亚特兰尼斯集团」sent regards to the Chinese Communist Party for its 100th anniversary. This might be signal that some self-censorship takes place in these media (see URL3 above) .
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are media personalities (including reporters, journalists or commentators) or celebrities who deny the existence of human rights abuses in the PRC (e.g. a media personality that doubts there are re-education camps for Uyghurs in Xinjiang).
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://formiche.net/2021/08/grillo-uiguri-network-claudio-mutti/
- https://www.lantidiplomatico.it/dettnews-la_fake_news_del_genocidio_degli_uiguri_smascherata_dalla_matematica/8_39326/
- https://www.radioradicale.it/scheda/639021/la-repressione-cinese-degli-uiguri-e-il-negazionismo-nel-blog-di-beppe-grillo?qt-blocco_interventi=1
Supplementary Notes
Beppe Grillo used to be extremely well-known, so the negation of Uygur genocide was significant, but he has since nuanced his position
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Academia
The Academia Domain measures how the PRC state attempts to restrict academic freedom by influencing or interfering with the Index country’s academic and educational activities.
In my country, universities have established research partnerships with PRC-connected entities. (e.g. Huawei, Tencent or Alibaba)
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2144.pdf
- https://www.rainews.it/archivio-rainews/articoli/Universita-e-start-up-per-Huawei-l-Italia-continua-ad-avere-un-ruolo-di-primo-piano-89a44804-8aa7-4473-8622-020f113b5aa0.html
- http://chinaroom.polito.it/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are Confucius Institutes/Classrooms.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2144.pdf
- https://www.clingendael.org/sites/default/files/2021-04/Report_ETNC_Chinas_Soft_Power_in_Europe_Falling_on_Hard_Times_2021.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country plans to include, or does include, Chinese as a foreign language in K12 or primary education, and receives free or subsidized (e.g. offered below market price) educational books and teachers from PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.clingendael.org/sites/default/files/2021-04/Report_ETNC_Chinas_Soft_Power_in_Europe_Falling_on_Hard_Times_2021.pdf
- https://www.istitutoconfucio.unimi.it/aule-confucio/poli-didattici/
- https://www.italiaoggi.it/news/nei-licei-italiani-scoppia-la-moda-della-lingua-cinese-2258054
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, one or more think tanks and academic research centers belong to PRC-affiliated networks/associations (such as: the Silk Road Think Tank Association, Silk Road Think Tank Network [SiLKS], Belt and Road Studies Network, University Alliance of the Silk Road, University Consortium of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road).
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, think tanks and academic research centers have received financial support from PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
72 countries answered this indicator; 10 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://decode39.com/2337/china-ccp-italy-influence/
- https://www.fondazioneitaliacina.it/it/la-fondazione/chi-siamo/network/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, experts participate in PRC talent recruitment programs such as the Thousand Talents Program or Changjiang Scholars program.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- http://www.centroculturalecinese.com/it/grande-successo-del-convegno-promozionale-di-reclutamento-studenti-italiani-per-luniversita-di-zhengzhou-le-iscrizioni-di-studenti-internazionali-alluniversita-di-henan-aprono-un-nu/
- https://www.esteri.it/it/sala_stampa/archivionotizie/approfondimenti/2014/02/20140211_cina/
- https://www.parmadaily.it/studentessa-delluniversita-dieci-italiani-training-huawei-cina/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, scholars have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
69 countries answered this indicator; 13 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
- https://www.rainews.it/archivio-rainews/articoli/Universita-e-start-up-per-Huawei-l-Italia-continua-ad-avere-un-ruolo-di-primo-piano-89a44804-8aa7-4473-8622-020f113b5aa0.html?refresh_ce
Supplementary Notes
Mostly indirect information
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, organized PRC-connected student groups, such as Chinese Students and Scholars Associations (CSSAs), are involved in attempts to censor staff or students (e.g. by harassing students protesting human rights abuses in the PRC, or formally complaining about the identification of Taiwan as a country in lecture slides).
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
There have been accusations, but they are mostly about self-censorship and have largely been disproven
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, scholars or academics have been denied visas to travel to the PRC after expressing opinions or producing scholarship that is critical of the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
If it exists, it has not been noted in the plentiful documentation about PRC's influence in Italy
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-connected entities have been involved in school or university curriculum design, such as courses about East Asian history, modern politics, etc.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
The connection is indirect: Italian academics who have autonomy over the design of curricula are hired en-masse by Confucius Institutes (~16 in Italy) and it is possible that PRC exerts influence over them in an informal way. There has been no official contestation of the sort in the public sphere, but when the majority of China scholars in the country are also somehow paid by the PRC, some invisible influence is possible
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are confirmed reports of teachers or professors avoiding the discussion of sensitive political issues (e.g. Uyghur re-education camps, Taiwan independence, Tiananmen Square Massacre).
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
77 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2152.pdf
- https://www.corriere.it/la-lettura/19_dicembre_19/istituti-confucio-cina-polemica-replica-tripodi-venezia-la-lettura-9591dd64-2265-11ea-8e32-6247f341a5cc.shtml
Supplementary Notes
Plenty of accusations, nothing really confirmed, though it is hard to prove. Rather than actively militate against such discussions, PRC-connected institutions seem to try to coopt such discussions to better control the narrative
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Economy
The Economy Domain measures the PRC’s economic leverage in the Index country, and how this is used to influence economic policy or corporate behavior in ways that favor the PRC.
The PRC is my country's number one trading partner (for trade in goods only).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
PRC-connected entities own more than 50% of my country’s sovereign debt.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
The PRC is the top customer for my country’s extractive industries.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.mef.gov.it/focus/I-rapporti-tra-Italia-e-Cina/
- https://oec.world/en/visualize/tree_map/hs92/export/ita/chn/show/2020/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-related entities own, operate or substantially control critical infrastructure (e.g. ports, power plants, digital data centers, etc) or sensitive sectors (biotech, raw materials, etc.)
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://splash247.com/trieste-silk-road-return-or-how-china-called-italys-bluff/
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2117.pdf
- https://thepeoplesmap.net/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country joined (or applied to join) the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.ft.com/content/29f4814c-467e-11e9-a965-23d669740bfb
- https://www.aiib.org/en/about-aiib/governance/members-of-bank/index.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, major businesses are members of the Silk Road Chamber of International Commerce, or of the Belt and Road Industrial and Commercial Alliance, or of the Belt and Road General Chamber of Commerce.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y64BgwEIxiw&ab_channel=IAIChannel
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2140.pdf
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2118.pdf
Supplementary Notes
The only things that may qualify are acquisitions: Pirelli bought by ChemChina, PRC SOE. In addition Ansaldo Energia was bought by Shanghai Electric, a public PRC company
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country has been the target of PRC economic coercion (e.g. trade or investment sanctions) that was specifically tailored at products or services that are highly dependent on the PRC market.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, local businesses have been harassed, threatened, or boycotted, due to their activities or statements in support of causes deemed unacceptable by the PRC government (e.g. Taiwanese independence, Hong Kong democracy, Tibet or Xinjiang issues, etc).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2152.pdf
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
Supplementary Notes
Some Italian brands have a corporate presence in China, but never opened stores there, and there was no boycott.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country has free-trade agreement(s) with the PRC (either bilateral or as part of regional agreement(s)) that primarily deals with trade in goods or services, including digital goods or services.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Not possible as a EU member country
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, central or local governments have relaxed or removed regulatory restrictions, or have established special economic zones (or free trade zones, industrial parks, etc.) to attract investments or economic participation from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://investmentpolicy.unctad.org/investment-policy-monitor/measures/3445/italy-establishes-a-new-special-economic-zone-
- https://www.agenziacoesione.gov.it/zes-zone-economiche-speciali/
Supplementary Notes
Italy has established special economic zones, but there is absolutely no sign it has done so on the behest of PRC investment, nor are there signs that these zones have received significant PRC investment
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-connected entities requisitioned infrastructure or land for failure to repay debts in a timely manner.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Society
The Society Domain measures the extent and effectiveness of the PRC’s efforts to advance its soft power in the Index country, including its influence over the actions and views of local organizations and citizens.
In my country, there are local groups or organizations with words like “Promotion of Peaceful Reunification” in their name, and they regularly publicize their views on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang issues.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://web.archive.org/web/20200310091132/https://henryjacksonsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/HJS-Sharp-Power-Report-FINAL.pdf
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
- http://www.zhongguotongcuhui.org.cn/hnwtchdt/
Supplementary Notes
There is a China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful National Reunification which is extremely active in Italy and has even coordinated mask donations during the COVID19 crisis
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are members and member organizations of United World Chinese Association (世界华人协会).
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
A local organization "意大利华侨华人贸易总会" belongs to 世界華人聯合總會WUCA. And there is confirmation that WUCA & UWCA (mentioned in the indicator) are part of the same group
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, labor unions cooperate on exchanges or official visits to the All-China Federation of Trade Unions (ACFTU) in the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www2.cgil.it/cina-acftu-e-cgil-continuano-il-confronto/
- https://www2.cgil.it/dopo-20-anni-incontro-tra-la-cgil-e-il-sindacato-cinese-acftu/
Supplementary Notes
The most left-wing major trade union in Italy seems to have had some connections with the ACFTU, but they haven't written anything since 2014. Seeing the type of public pressure normally put by Italian society on trade unions, it is unlikely that such a cooperation would have continued
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are local reports of personnel linked to the UFWD who make appearances at Chinese diaspora community events and activities (e.g. Lunar New Year events, Dragon Boat festival tournaments, etc).
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
A UFWD affiliate, Soong Ching Ling Foundation, is extremely active in Italy and present in many ways in both Italian and Chinese immigrant settings
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are PRC-connected professional associations that are closely engaged with their counterparts locally, such as All-China Journalists Association (中华全国新闻工作者协会), China Artists Association (中国艺术家协会), China Writers Association (中国作家协会) or All-China Women Federation (全国妇联).
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
Very difficult to find information online. Exchanges might exist, but they are definitely not close, nor do they seem publicized
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities donate money or provide other types of support to religious communities and charities.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Catholic network of support during pandemics (see the URL below)
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, the PRC government or PRC-connected entities distribute entertainment products (including: drama and TV shows) or related hardwares (e.g. OTT streaming players hosting PRC media channels) freely or at a cheap price.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No sign of anything like this in the Italian language. It would likely be difficult to do in a rich country, such as Italy
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Cultural products (such as films and TV shows) produced by my country’s production studios typically portray the PRC in a positive light.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
From my experience, not at all. The PRC is generally portrayed as self-interested, exploitative and authoritarian
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, celebrities regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Nobody has heard of anything of the sort, nor can we find anything in Italian or English
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, the national or local governments regularly publish or share propaganda narratives from the PRC (e.g. statements from the PRC government or embassies).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Apart from individual MPs or political leaders, such as Petrocelli, Rosato or Grillo, there is nothing of the sort. Even they speak squarely as individuals, not as representatives of the government; see section on Politics.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, a majority of citizens have positive views of the PRC government.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
75 countries answered this indicator; 7 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.ilfoglio.it/esteri/2020/10/07/news/che-cosa-pensiamo-davvero-della-cina--1142371/
- https://www.termometropolitico.it/1266230_sondaggi-politici-sono-gli-italiani-i-piu-anti-cinesi-in-europa.html
- https://formiche.net/2021/05/draghi-e-dragoni-la-cina-e-meno-vicina-il-report-dagli-stati-uniti/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Military
The Military Domain gauges the bilateral military relationship between the PRC and the Index country, including PRC efforts to influence local military personnel.
My country currently imports (or receives in-kind donation of) military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country currently exports military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment to the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.ilpost.it/2019/06/09/armi-italia-esportazioni/
- https://documenti.camera.it/_dati/leg18/lavori/documentiparlamentari/IndiceETesti/067/002v01/INTERO.pdf
Supplementary Notes
Italy is among the largest arms exporters in the world, so it's almost inevitable that they export arms to the PRCas well, but the quota is extremely low
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country co-develops or co-produces military or law-enforcement equipment with the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are reports that the PRC has expressed intentions or has taken actions to establish basing.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Hard to privide positive evidence for non-actions
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has participated in a humanitarian relief/disaster assistance (HADR) effort.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Italy received some masks as donations from PRC but there is no PLA affiliation
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, People’s Liberation Army (PLA) military personnel are permanently or rotationally deployed (excluding defense attaches and peacekeepers).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, members of the military have received professional military education from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, members of the military have received peacekeeping training from the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officers have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public service.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No information of anything of the sort and extremely unlikely in general. The Italian Army has a reputation for being extremely pro-American
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, high-ranking retired or current military and/or intelligence officials advocate for more coordination with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country cooperates with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on military exchange exercises, including drills and war games.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There is a piece of news on the internet about this in the past, but it is not corroborated with anything on Italy Defense Ministry website. Moreover it seems impossible that such cooperation exists today
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Law Enforcement
The Law Enforcement Domain measures law enforcement cooperation between the PRC and the Index country, as well as the nature and extent of PRC-related criminal activity in the Index country.
My country currently maintains an extradition treaty, legal mutual assistance or other similar arrangements with the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, law enforcement authorities have signed cooperation agreements with the PRC on combatting terrorism.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
While there is no trace of any cooperation on combatting terrorism, there is an agreement against transnational crime
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-connected gangs (such as Triad, 三合会) are known to be operating in my country.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are reports of economic espionage targeting the private sector that were suspected to benefit PRC-connected entities.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-raises-red-flags-on-chinas-cyber-espionage/
- https://www.startmag.it/mondo/cina-russia-huawei-5g-avio-aero-e-spionaggio-industriale-italia-nuovo-crocevia-strategico/
- https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/34841/attachments/1/translations/en/renditions/native
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are reports of cyber attacks targeting government, critical infrastructure, or enterprises that were suspected to be initiated from the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2152.pdf
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
Supplementary Notes
No sign that state espionate or cyber-attacks from the part of the PRC are seen as a risk. The only potential such discussion could be had surrounding the Huawei 5G discussion, which has been closed
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, triads are known to have threatened or used violence to coerce, intimidate or punish Chinese dissidents.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.panorama.it/news/la-storia-del-capo-della-mafia-cinese-italia-e-europa
- https://www.ilprimatonazionale.it/approfondimenti/avanzata-mafia-cinese-italia-111023/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country has deployed video or internet surveillance systems from the PRC for law enforcement.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.ilsole24ore.com/art/5g-gara-un-miliardo-le-forze-polizia-ammesse-anche-cinesi-huawei-e-zte-AEgh22L
- https://formiche.net/2019/04/roma-ignora-gli-alert-sul-made-china-telecamere-huawei-due-quartieri/
- https://www.milanofinanza.it/news/tecnologie-huawei-per-l-ecosistema-alert-alla-polizia-su-attivita-illegali-202111231314046829
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, representatives of the PRC police force have had joint patrols with local law enforcement.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.poliziadistato.it/articolo/15435b163b244ead0568454355
- https://www.poliziadistato.it/articolo/225dc132752fd60626399822
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My government has detained people at the request of the PRC for committing a crime involving engagements with social movements or resistance activities in Hong Kong, Xinjiang or for other human rights or civic rights issues.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country has deported Taiwan citizens to the PRC to face prosecution.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No information about this was found, so it is unlikely to have happened, though the Italian media seems interested in the subject.
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country has extradited or has deported individuals to the PRC, although such decisions had attracted criticisms from politicians, government employees or from local or foreign NGOs.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No information about this was found, although the Italian media seems interested in the subject
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Technology
The Technology Domain gauges the PRC’s influence over the technology sector in the Index country, including the activity and financial leverage of PRC companies, use of PRC hardware, and bilateral research partnerships.
In my country, PRC-connected entities (such as China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom) or their subsidiaries provide telecom services.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://it.cmlink.com/it/homepage
- https://www.tech4d.it/2021/03/il-drago-di-china-mobile-e-pronto-per-litalia-cmlink-in-arrivo-entro-il-2021/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, telecoms have signed agreements to adopt hardwares or technical specifications of 4G or 5G cellular networks that are produced or developed by Huawei, ZTE or other PRC enterprises.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
Agreements were repeatedly blocked by the government, though there is a theoretical possibility that Huawei or ZTE may at some point sign an agreement with one of the providers
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, telecoms have adopted hardware or technical specifications by PRC-connected entities in internet/wifi/telecommunication service infrastructure projects, in addition to 4G/5G cellular network.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
74 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-04-30/vodafone-found-hidden-backdoors-in-huawei-equipment
- https://www.ansa.it/innovazione_5g/notizie/tecnologia/2021/10/06/internet-provideroperatori-nazionali-sono-asset-strategico_79b84c2c-1f05-4cef-bbac-bb390b63c60e.html
Supplementary Notes
This has been mitigated by the fact that the government is pressuring telecom companies to revamp their service provision
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-connected entities are authorized vendors to supply tech-related equipment or services to our government, military or security services.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
The use of the Golden Power tool, used by the Draghi government also retroactively, has severely limited any clear provision of technology by PRC connected entities to the government
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, central or local governments have collaboration (such as data collection or exchange agreement, or adoption of related hardwares) with the PRC government or PRC-connected entities on facial, voice recognition or other applications involving biometrics achieved by AI.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Huawei did provide such services for some subnational governments, but it is unclear if these contracts were kept after the Draghi government ceased cooperation with Huawei at the central level. The fall of the Draghi government further increases uncertainty here.
- http://extranet.greens-efa.eu/public/media/file/1/7297
- https://www.tomshw.it/altro/huawei-e-acea-insieme-per-un-colosseo-piu-sicuro-grazie-alle-telecamere-smart/
Supplementary Notes
While biometric recognition processes are used (in a relatively restrictive way), none of the companies providing the service seem to be connected with the PRC
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, one or more cities have procured, or have signed contracts with PRC-connected entities to establish “smart city” systems.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.ipresslive.it/comunicates/26432/smart-city-for-intelligent-life-accordo-tra-huawei-e-lassociazione-italia-startup
- https://e.huawei.com/it/material/local/fec7bd5bf6c5431aba9137c986318197
- https://www.snewsonline.com/smart-city-nel-pnrr-10-miliardi-28-comuni-italiani-ha-almeno-un-progetto/
Supplementary Notes
It seems impossible to identify precisely which provider offered what to a certain city, but one of the largest players in the field is Politecnico di Milano, which has a long-standing partnership with Huawei. The mitigating factor here is the government's strong impetus to control for the provision of technology through PRC-connected entities
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, financial institutions use the China Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) clearing and settlement services system.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://internationalmoneytransfers.org/italy-swift-codes/
- https://www.cips.com.cn/en/participants/participants_announcement/index.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-connected venture capital invests in technology start-ups.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.wired.it/economia/start-up/2019/05/28/shopping-tax-free-stamp-cina/
- https://www.wired.it/economia/start-up/2021/09/17/startup-cina-finanziamenti-europa-mappa/
Supplementary Notes
While there has been some investment, EU and Italian national legislation is flexible enough that it can likely block any type of PRC investment that would be considered threatening to the security of the country
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, companies have publicly announced that they had signed MOUs to collaborate on technological development (such as collaborations in A.I., Blockchain, Cloud Computing, Big Data) with PRC-connected entities.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.corriere.it/economia/consumi/22_febbraio_28/huawei-pay-italia-accordo-intesa-bancomat-pagamenti-contactless-b6cc876a-987c-11ec-899b-30de360aaa79.shtml
- https://www.ilsole24ore.com/radiocor/nRC_23.09.2019_18.26_5463318
- http://www.lucidamente.com/49203-perche-laccordo-huawei-unibo-sullia-desta-molte-perplessita/
Supplementary Notes
Huawei is a significant player in the Italian tech sector and is embedded in many initiatives, but the government has the capacity to stop them with relatively little effort
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, PRC-connected entities are shareholders or developers of the top five popular social media/messaging apps, based on usage.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
TikTok is in the top5 most used apps in Italy.
- https://www.franzrusso.it/condividere-comunicare/mobile-2022-social-italia/
- https://www.insidemarketing.it/italiani-e-social-media-2021-blogmeter-dati/
- https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2021-italy
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, the central or local government(s) has collaborated with the PRC on endorsing the use of BeiDou satellite navigation system.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
No sign of anything of the like, plus EU countries would be interested to use Galileo rather than Beidou if they would ever choose to change from GPS
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Domestic Politics
The Domestic Politics Domain evaluates PRC efforts to influence the political landscape in the Index country, and the footprint of PRC security companies.
In my country, politicians or government employees at the sub-national level are signing agreements with the PRC government or state-owned enterprises.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://web.archive.org/web/20200310091132/https://henryjacksonsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/HJS-Sharp-Power-Report-FINAL.pdf
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, local municipalities have sister-city ties (友好城市) with municipalities in the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://cinainitalia.com/2020/08/20/gemellaggio-tra-citta-cinese-e-siena/
- http://www.comune.torino.it/relint/gemellaggieaccordi/
- https://cinainitalia.com/2020/06/25/cina-italia-guiyang-e-vicenza-saranno-gemellate/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, politicians or government employees have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/FP_20200519_playing_with_fire.pdf
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, politicians or government employees visit the PRC and have meetings with PRC officials and think tanks.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, law enforcement and judicial related training offered the PRC-connected individuals or entities has been accepted by national or subnational governments.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, there are reports of politicians or political parties receiving campaign donations that originate in the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.liberoquotidiano.it/news/politica/29518428/cina-parlamentari-ordini-dragone-dossier-nomi.html
- https://www.affaritaliani.it/politica/renzi-i-soldi-cinesi-dalla-matteo-pr-quei-bonifici-ripetitivi-da-8-33-779028.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have hosted fundraisings or have provided other forms of support for government employees, politicians or parties.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, groups with reported links to the United Front Work Department (UFWD) have made public statements opposing the candidacy of a local political candidate or party, claiming them being “anti-China”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
Supplementary Notes
There seems to be no evidence of anything of the sort. If it would happen, it would likely be restricted to areas with large Chinese immigrant populations and not be highly visible in the media
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, politicians or government employees have publicly expressed positive views of the PRC government.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://local.hyperbros.com/petrocelli-filocinese-in-cina-un-miliardo-di-persone-accetta-il-modello-socialista-ma-mi-faccia-il-piacere/
- https://www.huffingtonpost.it/politica/2022/04/27/news/grillo_conferma_sua_passione_per_cina_sul_blog_elogio_di_xi_jinping-9272823/
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, politicians or government employees have received direct or deferred benefits from PRC-connected individuals or entities openly or covertly (e.g. have been appointed to lucrative positions as board members or consultants with PRC-invested firms, casinos, energy companies, etc.) during or in retirement from public office.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.liberoquotidiano.it/news/commenti-e-opinioni/27967668/enrico-letta-affari-cina-non-piacciono-usa-a-quale-poltrona-dice-addio-segretario-pd.html
- https://web.archive.org/web/20200310091132/https://henryjacksonsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/HJS-Sharp-Power-Report-FINAL.pdfhttps://web.archive.org/web/20200310091132/https://henryjacksonsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/HJS-Sharp-Power-Report-FINAL.pdf
Supplementary Notes
Mostly former politicians, but also some current leaders
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, security services (安保/保安) offered by private PRC companies are contracted by national or subnational governments.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaip2152.pdf
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/it0.pdf
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Foreign Policy
The Foreign Policy Domain gauges PRC efforts to achieve diplomatic objectives by influencing key actors in the Index country.
My country’s legislature has a joint parliamentary friendship group, committee or other forms of sub-organizations with PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.camera.it/application/xmanager/projects/leg18/attachments/upload_file_europaestero/upload_files/000/000/466/PRESIDENZE_SEZ_BIL_AMICIZIA_15_03_2022.pdf
- https://www.geopolitica.info/litalia-entra-nellalleanza-inter-parlamentare-sulla-cina/
Supplementary Notes
On the other hand, Italy also joined the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (see URL2 above).
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Representatives of a political party in my country’s national legislature have met officially with representatives of the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 3 / 4 )
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.liberoquotidiano.it/news/commenti-e-opinioni/27967668/enrico-letta-affari-cina-non-piacciono-usa-a-quale-poltrona-dice-addio-segretario-pd.html
- https://web.archive.org/web/20200310091132/https://henryjacksonsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/HJS-Sharp-Power-Report-FINAL.pdf
- https://it.notizie.yahoo.com/m5s-blitz-grillo-ad-ambasciata-182617058.html
Supplementary Notes
While many parties meet with Chinese officials, few seem really swayed
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
The PRC provides training to diplomats or civil servants on governance from my country (such as at 国家行政学院 or 中央党校).
Yes
Answer ( 1 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Apparently three trainings hosted for civil servants took place, most recent in 2020. Chacking Italian sources they look like examples of public administration practices used in China which are presented and discussed in the Italian school 1. 2020/11, 中央党校(国家行政学院)「中央党校(国家行政学院)与意大利阿斯平研究所合作举办“后疫情时代的世界”中意学术研讨会」(see URL1 below) 2. 2014/06, 陝西行政学院学报「意大利高中级官员研修班一行来我院培训学习」(see URL2 below) 3. 2015/01, 中国共产党新闻网「副校长赵长茂会见意大利国家行政学院院长特里亚一行」(see URL3 below)
- https://www.ccps.gov.cn/bmpd/gjhzb/xwdt/202011/t20201117_144899.shtml
- http://www.yidu.edu.cn/100000/detail/article/57749ef5ede4fe1a838f4ca5.html?org=100000&uorg=999999
- http://cpc.people.com.cn/n/2015/0108/c87228-26350853.html
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
In my country, politicians or government employees have been pressured by PRC diplomats to change their political or diplomatic stances.
Yes
Answer ( 2 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://www.voanews.com/a/china-attempts-to-block-cultural-events-in-germany-italy/6290403.html
- https://www.voanews.com/a/italy-detention-of-exiled-uighur-activist-a-wake-up-call-as-china-flexes-muscles-rights-activists-say/3970690.html
- https://www.startmag.it/mondo/cina-italia-affari-viadellaseta/
Supplementary Notes
The pressure, if it exists, is primarily informal
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
Citizens of my country have been detained in PRC or denied exit visas, and believed to be suffering from unfair legal treatments for political reasons, a.k.a. “hostage diplomacy”.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Supplementary Notes
Score should be 1 but it does not appear in menu. One incident is mentioned in the source, but it does not appear serious
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
The head of state, head of government or foreign minister of my country has denied Taiwan’s right to participate as a member, observer or guest in WHO.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
79 countries answered this indicator; 3 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://apps.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/WHA73-REC3/A73_REC3-en.pdf#page=1
- https://www.opiniojuris.it/taiwan-oms/
- https://www.cnsnews.com/article/international/patrick-goodenough/who-says-13-countries-now-back-proposal-taiwans
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country publicly supported the appointment of a PRC official to be the head of a United Nations agency (such as the FAO or ICAO) or other intergovernmental organizations (such as INTERPOL).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
1/ Few, but insignificant
2/ More than a few, but insignificant
3/ Few, but significant
4/ More than a few, and significant
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Not Found
- https://www.visiontimes.com/2021/11/23/interpol-committee-china.html
- https://yiqinfu.github.io/posts/united-nations-general-assembly/
Supplementary Notes
Most likely not, but it is extremely difficult to prove something didn't happen
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My government has shown support of PRC's territorial claims (such as on the South China Sea arbitration ruling issued by the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal in July 2016; except claims over Taiwan, which are indirectly covered in indicator 6.)
Oppose
Skipped
0/ My country has rejected PRC’s claim
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has adhered to PRC’s claim
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Uyghur population.
Oppose
Skipped
0/ My country has denounced PRC
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://bitterwinter.org/italian-parliament-condemns-ccps-crimes-against-uyghurs/
- https://www.rfi.fr/en/international/20210324-italy-follows-france-germany-in-sanctioning-china-over-treatment-of-uyghurs
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My country has shown one of the following stances on PRC’s treatment of its Tibet population.
Oppose
Skipped
0/ My country has denounced PRC
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://tibet.net/italian-parliamentarians-and-civil-societies-discuss-human-rights-abuse-and-environmental-degradation-by-china-in-tibet-and-xinjiang/
- https://new-york-un.diplo.de/un-en/news-corner/201006-heusgen-china/2402648
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita
My government has not publicly criticized the PRC’s imposition of the National Security Law on Hong Kong.
Oppose
Skipped
0/ My country has denounced PRC
2/ My country has remained silent
4/ My country has voiced support to PRC’s stance
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
- https://new-york-un.diplo.de/un-en/news-corner/201006-heusgen-china/2402648
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-italy-idUSKBN25L1LR
Answered by 1 anonymous expert, and has been reviewed by Sorin Ionita