A new study sheds light on the amount of foreign funding to top US universities
A recent report from a nonprofit and nonpartisan government watchdog has brought to light the significant influx of foreign funds into U.S. universities, with $60 billion in foreign gifts and contracts flowing into American colleges and universities in recent years. This includes a staggering $20 billion directed towards some of the most prestigious universities in the country, such as Harvard and Yale.
The study, conducted by Americans for Public Trust and released this week, revealed that a portion of this funding – $795 million to be exact – originated from nations that are considered adversaries to the United States, including China, Russia, Venezuela, and Yemen. This has raised concerns about the potential influence that these foreign entities may have on American higher education institutions, particularly those engaged in sensitive research and handling intellectual property.
Caitlin Sutherland, the executive director of Americans for Public Trust, expressed alarm at the lack of transparency and oversight surrounding these foreign donations. She emphasized the need for elected officials to address reporting lapses and increase accountability to prevent undue influence from foreign actors.
The report also highlighted the rise in anti-American sentiments and radical ideologies on college campuses that have coincided with the influx of foreign funding. In particular, concerns were raised about anti-Israel protests and antisemitic violence at institutions that received significant contributions from countries like Qatar.
Furthermore, the study pointed out the dangers of Chinese funding entering Ivy League institutions, citing over $175 billion in Chinese money flowing into U.S. schools in 2024 alone. The report specifically noted nearly $130 million in Chinese funding to the University of Pennsylvania over a five-year period.
To combat foreign influence in American higher education, the report recommended measures such as the passage of the DETERRENT ACT. This legislation aims to deter malicious actors from attempting to buy influence, conduct espionage, and spread propaganda through the U.S. higher education system.
Overall, the findings of this report underscore the importance of safeguarding American universities from undue foreign influence and maintaining the integrity of academic research and discourse. It is imperative for policymakers to take action to address these concerns and protect the independence and security of U.S. higher education institutions.
