Spain
* 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, Spain had a GDP per capita of US$30,116 with a total population of 47,32 million people, of which 224,559 are Chinese.
Spain established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1973. Spain was ranked 32rd in Reporters Without Borders' 2022 World Press Freedom Index, and was rated Free in Freedom House's 2022 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.
- Media50.0% / 30.1%
- Academia30.6% / 34%
- Economy18.2% / 33.6%
- Society6.8% / 23.6%
- Military18.2% / 23.4%
- Law Enforcement54.5% / 30.2%
- Technology68.2% / 40.8%
- Domestic Politics27.3% / 37.2%
- Foreign Policy13.6% / 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 ( 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
I would say that the most significant aspect is that the owner of Qiaosheng News, from Spain is also Vicepresident of the World Chinese Media. The media outlets are few but apparently significant.
- https://www.worldchinesemedia.com/2016/08/31/8553/
- http://www.laicw.com/index.php?mobile=no
- http://www.ouhua.info/2016/0715/8008.html
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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).
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
I could find no journalist or media organization in Spain that are members of any Belt and Road news initiative.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are journalists, media organizations or online influencers who have attended all-expenses paid media tours in 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
71 countries answered this indicator; 11 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
I have not found evidence of Spanish media or journalists tours paid by China though there are many schollarship opportunities. In 2019 ABC director visited China in what seems to be an all expenses paid tour (see the URL below). But it is worth noting this is hard to find proof of.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
I found no evidence but due to the large number of schollarships and the presence of PRC related media in Spain I would doubt it.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC state-media (including print, radio, and video) is broadcasted or distributed in a local language.
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
Mainstream media in Spain use the information provided by international news agencies and only sometimes and on politically irrelevant matters, use information or footage provided by PRC state-media.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are local media outlets wholly or partly owned by PRC citizens or corporations.
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
There are not many media outlets wholly or partly owned by PRC citizens and in many cases it is really hard to find evidence. But I found some quite significant.
- https://okdiario.com/investigacion/firma-china-compra-mitad-mediapro-cambia-nombre-acuerdo-roures-1757089
- https://forbes.es/empresas/88082/ano-del-buey-energia-infraestructura-y-jamones-asi-invierten-los-empresarios-chinos-en-espana/
- https://grupointernacionaldemedios.com/
Supplementary Notes
Media Group with strong relations with China. Director of Radio Inter is Liao Lim.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are media outlets that have delivered cheap or free contents provided by PRC state-fund media.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 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
Many mainstream media use contents provided by PRC state-fund media. RTVE even signed an agreement with CCTV to share content but that was in 2009 (see URL4 below).
- https://www.lavanguardia.com/vida/20210116/6183700/china-hospitales-nangong-habei-covid-rebrotes.html
- https://www.rtve.es/noticias/20200203/nuevo-hospital-contra-coronavirus-wuhan-milagro-chino-construido-solo-diez-dias/1998605.shtml
- https://www.larazon.es/internacional/asia/20220427/ltze3apourexlh2rwhemgfrj5e.html
- https://www.rtve.es/noticias/20090130/rtve-television-publica-china-cctv-intercambiaran-coproduciran-programas/226943.shtml
Supplementary Notes
In the first URL, La Vanguardia quotes Associated Press (AP) but the reason this URL is included is because it portrais a video provided by Xinhua Videos that looks more like a promotion video that an actual news.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are regular PRC state-media or government advertisements inserted within local newspapers, online news websites or social 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
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
The most important newspaper in Spain has a China Watch (provided by China Daily) insert. As showed in this article "Todo lo que necesitan saber sobre China, por gentileza de ‘El País’" (see URL1 below) during 2021 El Pais published an insert (it is not clear for how long) provided by China Daily. The website that portrais "Chinawatch" (see URL2 below) seems to be out of work but if you go into the articles you will see the sections are updated until July 2022 (see URL3 below). It is worth noting that El País is the most important newspaper in Spain and a highly respected and followed paper in Latin America as whole. Thus the rating.
- https://gaceta.es/actualidad/todo-lo-que-necesitan-saber-sobre-china-por-gentileza-de-el-pais-20210329-0947/
- https://chinawatch.elpais.com/
- https://chinawatch.elpais.com/economia/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Most important media outlets in Spain have correspondants in PRC, and many of them have denounced some kind of pressure.
- https://www.voanews.com/a/spanish-newspaper-criticizes-china-for-pressuring-reporters/6488008.html
- https://www.congreso.es/busqueda-de-iniciativas?p_p_id=iniciativas&p_p_lifecycle=0&p_p_state=normal&p_p_mode=view&_iniciativas_mode=mostrarDetalle&_iniciativas_legislatura=XIV&_iniciativas_id=184/069973
- https://www.abc.es/internacional/abci-embajada-china-espana-senala-publicamente-corresponsal-abc-perfil-jinping-202112021115_noticia.html
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are incidents of media outlets censoring views critical of the PRC government.
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
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
I could find no evidence.
Supplementary Notes
There might have been some cases but I could find no evidence.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 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
Though sort of isolated, this case was really controversial and got relevance in the public discussion in Spain.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 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
The most important universities have some kind of agreement with PRC related companies for research and cooperation.
- https://www.upv.es/noticias-upv/noticia-12523-alianza-upv-hu-es.html
- https://www.eleconomista.es/universidades/noticias/8536088/08/17/China-Tianying-CNTY-firma-un-convenio-de-colaboracion-con-las-universidades-de-Tongji-UPC-y-UPM.html
- https://www.eleusal.com/2019/09/12/ele-usal-firma-un-acuerdo-para-la-apertura-de-51-escuelas-en-china-con-la-empresa-zixi-technology-development/
- https://www.europapress.es/andalucia/malaga-00356/noticia-empresa-china-abrira-2022-centro-investigacion-malaga-tech-park-20211216120948.html
- https://www.elperiodicodearagon.com/aragon/2019/11/22/firmado-acuerdo-china-investigar-salud-46582112.html
- https://www.latribunadeciudadreal.es/noticia/Z37B38C13-9F91-5409-1E1C56A3A6C229E0/202101/Huawei-elige-a-la-UCLM-para-investigar
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Confucio Institutes are present in some of the most important and big universities in Spain.
- https://confuciomadrid.es/instituto-confucio-de-madrid/
- https://www.institutoconfucioleon.es/instituto-confucio/enlaces/otros-institutos-confucio-en-espana/
- https://www.upf.edu/es/web/e-noticies/archivo/-/asset_publisher/wEpPxsVRD6Vt/content/id/2646547/maximized#.YmkMJtpBxD8
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There is the case of the region of Andalucía that has included Chinse in the curriculum. It is an isolated and minor example. Anecdotic so far.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 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
There are not many but though they date from some years now, the case of Fundacion Alternativas and Real Instituto Elcano are important.
- https://sinopsis.cz/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/ep.pdf
- https://lanuevarutadelaseda.com/?p=2719
- https://www.fundacionalternativas.org/noticias/opex/la-fundacion-alternativas-participa-como-fundadora-del-silk-road-think-tank-network
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, think tanks and academic research centers have received financial support from PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Skip
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
Aside from the participation of Chinese companies in Universities mentioned in 1 of this section it is hard to say if other think tanks receive support from PRC related entities. These are some identified. Maybe the case of Cátedra China (see URL4 below) but it is hard to say if they receive funds from PRC. In any case there is no evidence of financial support from PRC-connected individiuals or entities to these or any think tanks or academic research centers.
- https://www.us.es/laUS/secretaria-general/convenios/convenios-de-vicerrectorado-de-relaciones-institucionales-5331
- https://politica-china.org/que-es-el-observatorio
- https://www.casaasia.es/transparencia/
- https://www.catedrachina.com/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, experts participate in PRC talent recruitment programs such as the Thousand Talents Program or Changjiang Scholars program.
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 relevant at all.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, scholars have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or entities.
Skip
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
Found some in previous periods but nothing since 2020. In the interview Sentis states: ""I am extremely thankfull for the invitation by the Chinese Embassy in Spain to take part in this trip that opens new opportunities and where I was able to share interesting meetings with diplomats and experts from 23 European countries"". We do not have access to the actual payment of the trip but I am pretty sure this statement certifies that it is a paid visit. But no concrete evidence or statement declaring who paid for the trip. On the other evidence provided, here you can find a more detailed information in this artical "La Fundación para el intercambio entre Yiwu y España presenta el ‘Viaje para descubrir el tren Madrid - Yiwu’" (see URL1 below) . I could not find specific information on who was paying for this trip but this article states that it is an initiative by local government of Yiwu
- https://www.enpozuelo.es/noticia/9844/noticias-comunidad/la-fundacion-para-el-intercambio-entre-yiwu-y-espana-presenta-el-viaje-para-descubrir-el-tren-madrid---yiwu.html
- https://www.eleconomista.es/ecoaula/noticias/9499902/11/18/Carlos-Sentis-El-sistema-educativo-esta-muy-lejos-de-aportar-soluciones-para-los-retos-del-futuro.html
- http://spanish.peopledaily.com.cn/n3/2019/0307/c31620-9553556.html
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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).
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
Before the analyzed period there was this case "Beijing accused of pressuring Spanish university to drop Taiwanese cultural event" (see the URL below).
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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).
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
77 countries answered this indicator; 5 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Before the analyzed period there was this case "Una supuesta coacción de China a la Universidad de Salamanca genera gran tensión" (see the URL below).
- https://www.lagacetadesalamanca.es/hemeroteca/tension-supuesta-coaccion-china-universidad-OSGS246877
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
In 2021 China was second importer in Spain but came up in the 10th place on exports.
- https://www.icex.es/icex/es/Navegacion-zona-contacto/revista-el-exportador/en-cifras/index.html#seccion6
- https://santandertrade.com/es/portal/analizar-mercados/espana/cifras-comercio-exterior
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
There are no equivalent figures for China from either the Spanish or Chinese authorities. However the perception in the market is that this jurisdiction is playing a considerable and growing role in financing the Spanish Treasury in the last two years.
- https://www.sefofuncas.com/Spain%E2%80%99s-economic-prospects-under-the-new-administration/Spanish-public-debt-holdings-at-the-end-of-the-ECBs-purchase-programme
- https://www.realinstitutoelcano.org/en/much-spanish-sovereign-debt-china-hold/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
- https://oec.world/es/profile/country/esp?depthSelector1=HS2Depth
- https://oec.world/es/profile/bilateral-product/refined-petroleum/reporter/esp
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
There are many and relevant cases.
- https://www.bakermckenzie.com/en/newsroom/2022/01/chinese-outbound-fdi-held-steady-in-2021
- https://merics.org/en/report/chinese-fdi-europe-2021-update
- https://hutchisonports.com/ports/spain/
- https://www.elperiodico.com/es/economia/20211222/hutchison-ports-best-invierte-60-13018347
- https://economia3.com/2022/04/07/476293-la-geopolitica-china-a-la-conquista-de-los-principales-puertos-espanoles/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Spain is member since 2017 with 1.8% subscription.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
There is one with the European Union under consultation and study.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 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
I could not find an official website of any of these organizations but they used to have more activities around 2016.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are members and member organizations of United World Chinese Association (世界华人协会).
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Evidence found prooves that Spanish trade unions tend to be critical of labor practices in the PRC.
- https://industria.ccoo.es/6a44bce196f2952ab4862003605b214f000060.pdf
- https://www.ugt.es/ugt-apoya-la-campana-por-la-liberacion-de-sindicalistas-en-china
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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).
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
Supporting Evidence
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
There are really few and not very relevant.
- https://www.anynouxines.barcelona/es/organizadores.html
- https://www.womenofchina.cn/womenofchina/html1/19081/4139-1.htm
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected individuals or entities donate money or provide other types of support to religious communities and charities.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Due to COVID there were many donations from Chinese companies, businesspeople and government but they were, in all the documented cases, donations given to the Spanish government.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
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
Something not widespread or massively consumed.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
They are actually pretty critical in particular with the restrictions in place during COVID in many PRC's cities.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Supporting Evidence
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Supporting Evidence
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Evidence show the opposite, particularly after COVID.
- https://www.realinstitutoelcano.org/covid-19-y-la-imagen-de-china-en-espana/
- https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2020/10/06/unfavorable-views-of-china-reach-historic-highs-in-many-countries/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No donations but imports.
- https://www.xataka.com/drones/asi-nuevo-megadron-autonomo-policia-nacional-regalo-china-que-pesa-600-kg-alcanza-130-km-h
- https://spain-china-foundation.org/ciencia-y-tecnologia/la-policia-nacional-firmar-un-acuerdo-de-colaboracion-con-la-compania-china-ehang/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country currently exports military or law-enforcement equipment or components of equipment to the PRC.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No such incident occurred. There is a EU arms embargo on China.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found. Only in 2018 there was a shared drill in Djibouti (see the URL below)
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country cooperates with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on military exchange exercises, including drills and war games.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
They conducted a medical rescue drill in Djibouti with PRC.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
It is a really controversial issue that comes up every now and then.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
In 2018 Spain and PRC signed a joint declaration includingthe aspect of fight against terrorism but no agreement was signed on that regard.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Every now and then something related to the Chinese mafia (that is what they call it in Spain) appears in the media.
- https://www.vozpopuli.com/espana/mafia-china-blanqueo.html
- https://www.20minutos.es/noticia/4665831/0/cae-mafia-china-marihuana-espana-escala-industrial-nunca-vista/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thYxCoM4nWQ
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of economic espionage targeting the private sector that were suspected to benefit PRC-connected entities.
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
I could not find specific cases of companies accusing PRC but there is this one report that mentions this as a certain possibility without giving details.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 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
There are many reports on this showing the significance, though there are not that many.
- https://www.elperiodico.com/es/sociedad/20200918/hackers-china-datos-vacuna-espana-covid19-8117592
- https://www.businessinsider.es/cni-revela-paises-estan-detras-ciberataques-espana-546485
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, triads are known to have threatened or used violence to coerce, intimidate or punish Chinese dissidents.
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
Supporting Evidence
Found no evidence, though I know there are threats cases, not clearly linked to triads and not made public yet.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
I found only these two cases of certain significance.
- https://www.xataka.com/drones/asi-nuevo-megadron-autonomo-policia-nacional-regalo-china-que-pesa-600-kg-alcanza-130-km-h
- https://www.elconfidencial.com/empresas/2020-06-30/aena-adif-operan-empresa-china-escaner-eeuu-quiere-expulsar-ue_2660659/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, representatives of the PRC police force have had joint patrols with local law enforcement.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Found no recent evidence.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
My country has deported Taiwan citizens to the PRC to face prosecution.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Spain is one of the fue Western Hemisphere countries doing it every now and then.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
These decisions usually atract criticism but they do it anyway.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Telefonica and China Unicom had crossed property until a couple of years ago when Telefonica stopped having a Chinese in the board (see URL1 below).
- https://cincodias.elpais.com/cincodias/2020/04/17/companias/1587135478_750647.html
- https://csmobile.es/about-us/
- https://chinatelecomeurope.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/CTE-Company-brochure_27July2020.pdf
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
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
The latest agreement I found were in 2019 and apparently the main Spanish Telcos are leaving PRCs companies behind. Those agreements still taking place are not significant.
- https://www.elindependiente.com/economia/2021/06/15/las-telecos-arrinconan-a-huawei-como-proveedor-5g-en-espana/
- https://www.noticiasdegipuzkoa.eus/economia/2019/02/26/euskaltel-amplia-alianza-zte-expansion/600216.html
- https://www.expansion.com/empresas/tecnologia/2019/09/04/5d6ec539e5fdeae32b8b45ad.html
- https://www.zdnet.com/article/orange-espana-uses-zte-to-conduct-5g-demos/
- https://www.xatakamovil.com/conectividad/el-fabricante-chino-zte-financiara-el-85-de-la-red-de-fibra-optica-de-jazztel
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 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
74 countries answered this indicator; 8 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Apparently, the presence of middleboxes is not as important as to be easily detected and there are measures in place to prevent internet constraints. But at the same time academic studies show the presence of middleboxes and websites being blocked in Spain by Spanish ISP. But they are isolated and not significant cases.
- https://www.top10vpn.com/research/huawei-china-surveillance-state/
- https://public.opentech.fund/documents/English_Weber_WWW_of_Information_Controls_Final.pdf
- https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3447535.3462638
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, PRC-connected entities are authorized vendors to supply tech-related equipment or services to our government, military or security services.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are no restrictions that I could find evidence of in place.
- https://www.soy-de.com/noticia-tres-cantos/somos-una-gran-smart-citie-donde-la-tecnologia-tricantina-se-utiliza-para-mejorar-la-calidad-de-vida-43061.aspx
- https://www.huawei.com/en/news/2019/11/barcelona-city-council-huawei-collaboration-intent-agreement#:~:text=5G-,Barcelona%20City%20Council%20and%20Huawei%20Sign%20Intent,Collaborate%20on%20Technology%20Development%20Projects&text=%5BBarcelona%2C%20Spain%2C%20November%2019,technology%20projects%20in%20the%20city.
- https://web.archive.org/web/20201125232721/https://e.huawei.com/en/case-studies/global/2019/201901161035
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
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
I would say the case of the city of Tres Cantos in the outskirts of Madrid is significant but also seems to be quite an isolated case.
- https://carnegieendowment.org/2019/09/17/global-expansion-of-ai-surveillance-pub-79847
- https://360y5.es/la-tecnologia-de-camaras-de-seguridad-de-tres-cantos-coloca-a-la-ciudad-a-la-cabeza-de-las-smart-cities-de-espana/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, one or more cities have procured, or have signed contracts with PRC-connected entities to establish “smart city” systems.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 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
Barcelona is probably the most significant.
- https://360y5.es/la-tecnologia-de-camaras-de-seguridad-de-tres-cantos-coloca-a-la-ciudad-a-la-cabeza-de-las-smart-cities-de-espana/
- https://e.huawei.com/es/videolist/video/511299783f6d44908ccb7b2ded73a0d0
- https://www.smartcitiesworld.net/news/news/huawei-seals-smart-city-deal-with-barcelona-4804
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
There are some investments but in small and insignificant cases.
- https://www.businessinsider.es/fondo-internacional-cathay-innovation-entra-espanol-seaya-847585
- https://www.lainformacion.com/empresas/gigante-tencent-negocia-espana-inversion-startup-lingokids/2832052/
- https://startupxplore.com/es/blog/entrii-capta-130-000-e-en-su-primera-ronda-de-financiacion-con-el-apoyo-de-startupxplore/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 4 / 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
There are many signifcant cases due to the importance of such companies.
- https://www.telefonica.com/en/communication-room/telefonica-signs-an-agreement-with-kt-corp-china-unicom-and-telstra-to-collaborate-on-the-multi-operator-edge-computing-experience/
- https://www.datacenterdynamics.com/es/noticias/huawei-y-xdata-firman-un-acuerdo-para-impulsar-la-industria-de-data-center/
- https://www.euskaltel.com/CanalOnline/nosotros/sala-prensa/notas-prensa/20190225105513542
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ranks 3rd or 4th depending on the ranking.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, local municipalities have sister-city ties (友好城市) with municipalities in the PRC.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 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
They are not so many but they are from important cities in the country.
- https://www.europapress.es/turismo/destino-espana/noticia-valencia-hermana-ciudad-china-xian-colaborar-ambitos-cultural-turistico-20201124155349.html
- https://spain-china-foundation.org/cultura/barcelona-y-shenzhen-ciudades-hermanas/
- https://www.cartv.es/aragonnoticias/noticias/azcon-estrecha-relaciones-comerciales-y-culturales-con-el-alcalde-de-canton-china-3298
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have taken trips to the PRC paid for by PRC-connected individuals or 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
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There has been some paid trips to leaders of PP but it dates back to 2013.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees visit the PRC and have meetings with PRC officials and think tanks.
Yes
Answer ( 4 / 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
There were not so many, probably due to COVID restrictions in China, but they were relevant in terms of virtual communications.
- http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2021-03/27/c_139840786.htm
- https://www.idcpc.org.cn/english/news/202107/t20210715_146454.html
- https://www.mundodeportivo.com/juegos-olimpicos/juegos-olimpicos-invierno/20220205/1001746563/espana-china-ratifican-interes-acelerar-colaboracion-deportes.html
Supplementary Notes
Previous to the pandemic, meetings of this sort took place fluently: Link
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, there are reports of politicians or political parties receiving campaign donations that originate in 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
78 countries answered this indicator; 4 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Though not opposing to a candidacy or coming from the UFWD but straight from the Embassy (see URLs below).
- https://www.lavanguardia.com/politica/20200314/474130186160/embajada-china-ortega-smith-racista-malditos-virus-chinos-coronavirus.html
- https://www.elplural.com/comunicacion/internet/china-harta-macarena-olona-responde-contundencia-vox-peste-siglo-xxi_237673102
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have publicly expressed positive views of the PRC government.
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
It is hard to say, specially because it is hard to define "positive". The government officials and political leaders usually have friendly expressions with regards to PRC and rarely express their concerns on sensitive issues such as Human rigths, Taiwan, Uygurs or Tibet. Also the indicator "El presidente del Gobierno recibe a representantes de la comunidad china en España" could be considered (see URL1 below).
- https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/presidente/actividades/Paginas/2020/040220-ps-china.aspx
- https://www.ifri.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/full-report-web-version_updated_2019.pdf
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41111-016-0019-x#Sec6
- https://www.heraldo.es/noticias/nacional/2020/02/05/rey-elogia-gestion-coronavirus-china-expresa-apoyo-1357195.html
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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 ( 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
73 countries answered this indicator; 9 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
I found this case of an MP who is partner in a consulting firm working in/with China.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No evidence found.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
0/ No
4/ Yes
82 countries answered this indicator; 0 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
Though there was one established in 2009, the Spanish Congress decided to suspend all Parliamentary friendship groups due to the economic crisis that same year.
Supplementary Notes
Information confirmed via e-mail by the Congress.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
It is worth noting that meetings were more before the pandemic but restrictions of travel I think that prevented some of them taking place. Thus the virtual meeting reference provided as reference 2.
- https://www.efe.com/efe/espana/politica/los-presidentes-de-parlamentos-chino-y-espanol-acuerdan-reforzar-la-cooperacion/10002-4699241
- https://www.idcpc.org.cn/english/news/202103/t20210318_145415.html
- https://www.abc.es/espana/abci-rajoy-china-oportunidad-para-espana-ruta-seda-tras-salir-fuerza-crisis-201705140619_noticia.html
- https://www.idcpc.org.cn/english/news/201505/t20150506_73642.html
- https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-psoe-mantendra-encuentros-lideres-partido-comunista-chino-parte-delegacion-socialista-europea-20110701155653.html
- https://www.congreso.es/notas-de-prensa?p_p_id=notasprensa&p_p_lifecycle=0&p_p_state=normal&p_p_mode=view
- https://www.europapress.es/nacional/noticia-psoe-mantendra-encuentros-lideres-partido-comunista-chino-parte-delegacion-socialista-europea-20110701155653.html
Supplementary Notes
Some evidence on the relationship and official meetings prior to COVID outbreak (see URL3~URL7 above).
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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).
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
Supporting Evidence
I found no evidence of trainings to federal civil servants over the last 3 years.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
In my country, politicians or government employees have been pressured by PRC diplomats to change their political or diplomatic stances.
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
81 countries answered this indicator; 1 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
There are reports stating the pressure regarding extraditions and a couple of years ago, the change of international jurisdiction, but it is hard to find evidence of pressure more than requests or certain potential economic impacts of decisions such as leaving Huawei out of 5G service in Spain. There was a change in international jurisdiction policy in 2014 and 2018 that apparently changed due to Chinese pressure (see URL3 below).
- https://www.rfi.fr/es/china-presiona-a-gobiernos-extranjeros-para-deportar-a-taiwaneses-denuncia-una-ong
- https://es.theepochtimes.com/llamada-encubierta-revela-que-embajada-china-presiono-al-teatro-real-para-que-cancelara-shen-yun-en-espana_430004.html
- https://www.csis.org/analysis/spain-and-china-european-approach-asymmetric-relationship
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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”.
No
Answer ( 0 / 4 )
Skipped
0/ No
4/ Yes
80 countries answered this indicator; 2 countries skipped this indicator
Supporting Evidence
No evidence found.
- https://www.elmundo.es/espana/2021/11/22/619a784be4d4d8cf068b45a8.html
- https://www.elindependiente.com/espana/2021/06/30/china-no-da-explicaciones-sobre-las-hospitalizaciones-forzosas-a-extranjeros-vacunados-y-con-anticuerpos/
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Spain never voted against Taiwan's right to participate as a member, observer or guest in WHO.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
There was never a public support.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
No such incident occurred.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Spain holds a discreet diplomacy always aligned with the EU with regards to sensitive issues.
- https://www.elmundo.es/internacional/2021/03/22/6058d9c421efa0893e8b4643.html
- https://www.csis.org/analysis/spain-and-china-european-approach-asymmetric-relationship
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Spain holds a discreet diplomacy always aligned with the EU with regards to sensitive issues.
- https://www.ifri.org/sites/default/files/atoms/files/full-report-web-version_updated_2019.pdf
- https://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/11/world/europe/spanish-legislators-seek-new-limits-on-universal-jurisdiction-law.html
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.
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
Spain holds a discreet diplomacy always aligned with the EU with regards to sensitive issues.
Answered by Hernan Alberro, and has been reviewed by another 1 anonymous expert.