In a controversial move, Dalian Polytechnic University in northeastern China announced the expulsion of a female student, citing her involvement in “improper contact” with a foreigner and stating that she had “damaged national dignity.” The incident came to public attention after videos were circulated online, allegedly showing the student engaged in intimate interactions with a Ukrainian video gamer.
The university's decision triggered a significant backlash on social media platforms, where opinions diverged sharply. Some voices commended the university's stance, echoing sentiments that Chinese women are often too enamored with foreign individuals. Conversely, many critics argued that the expulsion reflected deep-seated sexism and a paternalistic mindset, particularly in comparison to the leniency shown towards perpetrators of more severe offenses like sexual harassment on university campuses.
Critics directed their ire not just at the university, but also at the online community that contributed to the public shaming of the student. Zhao Hong, a professor of law at Peking University, condemned the actions as unjust. In a local opinion piece, Zhao stated that those who truly undermined national dignity were not the student but the individuals who “frantically humiliated an ordinary woman under the banner of so-called justice.”
The university's announcement provided little detail about the charges, only stating that the incident occurred on December 16, and the expulsion was justified under a university regulation emphasizing “civic morality.” The specified regulation outlined that students engaging in “improper contact” with foreigners could face severe disciplinary actions, including demotions or expulsion, depending on the situation.
As discussions continue to unfold regarding the implications of the university's stance, debates on social media regarding individual freedoms, the treatment of women, and national pride remain fervent. Many are questioning whether such measures are appropriate in a time when personal privacy and autonomy should be recognized and respected.
