The expulsion of a female student from Dalian Polytechnic University for alleged inappropriate contact with a foreigner has ignited significant debate in China, highlighting concerns over sexual double standards and public shaming practices.
Chinese University Expels Student Over Alleged 'Improper Contact' With Foreigner
Chinese University Expels Student Over Alleged 'Improper Contact' With Foreigner
A controversial expulsion at a university in China critiques national dignity and raises issues of sexism amid heated online debate.
In a decision that has stirred intense controversy, Dalian Polytechnic University in northeastern China announced it would expel a female student for allegedly engaging in "improper contact with a foreigner" which they claim "damaged national dignity." This announcement came after videos circulated on social media suggesting the student, whose full name was disclosed by the university, had been intimate with a Ukrainian video gamer.
The university's actions have led to a divided response among both the public and commentators. Some individuals welcomed the university's decision, arguing that Chinese citizens, particularly women, are becoming overly attracted to foreigners. In contrast, a significant number of voices have accused the expulsion of being steeped in sexism, particularly in light of how less severe punishments are often handed out for serious accusations like rape or sexual harassment in similar contexts.
Zhao Hong, a professor at Peking University, voiced criticism over the situation, arguing that it was the public's intrusive scrutiny and the university's handling of the incident that truly disrespected the woman's rights. "If there is anyone who truly undermined national dignity in this case, it was not the woman whose privacy rights were violated," he wrote in an opinion piece.
While the university cited a regulation pertaining to "civic morality" to justify the expulsion, it has faced backlash for publicly shaming the student by not only releasing her full name but also for promoting an atmosphere of moral judgment that many see as outdated. The university stated that this was a necessary punishment as they deemed the incident on December 16 had "caused a negative impact," though they provided no specifics regarding the alleged behavior.
With public opinion split and discussions around gender equality igniting, this incident has not only spotlighted the university’s controversial policies but also reflects a broader societal debate within China regarding relationships with foreigners and the treatment of women.
