Chinese influence operations refer to coordinated efforts by the government of China to shape narratives, influence public opinion, and advance its strategic interests abroad through various means short of open military action. Some of the key aspects include:

1. Propaganda and Disinformation Campaigns:
   • State Media: Utilizing outlets like Xinhua News Agency and China Global Television Network (CGTN), China disseminates propaganda and disinformation to promote narratives favorable to its interests.
   • Social Media Tactics: Engaging in operations on platforms like Twitter and Facebook to spread pro-China messages, often using bots and fake accounts to amplify these narratives.
2. Influencing Overseas Chinese Communities and Student Groups:
   • Confucius Institutes: Establishing these institutes on university campuses worldwide to promote Chinese language and culture, while critics argue they also serve as tools for CCP propaganda and influence.
   • United Front Tactics: Engaging overseas Chinese communities and student groups to foster loyalty to the CCP and support its strategic objectives.
3. Covert or Coercive Methods:
   • Cyber Attacks: Conducting cyber espionage and attacks to steal intellectual property and sensitive information from foreign governments and corporations.
   • Economic Pressure: Applying economic leverage on companies or countries to align their policies with Chinese interests, sometimes using threats or incentives.
4. Elite Capture:
   • Cultivating Relationships: Targeting influential individuals in politics, academia, and business through well-funded exchange programs, financial incentives, and other means to gain their support or compliance.
   • Political Donations and Lobbying: Using financial contributions and lobbying efforts to influence policymakers and political elites in various countries.
5. Exploiting Democratic Openness:
   • Spreading Messaging: Taking advantage of the openness of democratic societies to disseminate Chinese messaging and influence public opinion.
   • Restricting Reciprocal Access: While promoting its narratives abroad, China restricts foreign media and influence within its own borders, creating an asymmetrical information environment.

The overall alleged goal of these operations is to increase China’s global influence, undermine perceived threats, and shape a world conducive to China’s authoritarian governance model. However, views differ on the severity and extent of these activities, making it a contentious issue that provokes debate and countermeasures in many nations.