Civicidea

Chinese cyber-espionage campaign reached the US Foreign Investments Office

Newswire / /

According to CNN, Chinese hackers breached the US government office, which assesses foreign investment in the context of national security. This action underlines the Chinese interest in American institutions that have the power to block Chinese investments in the US once more.

The targeted office of the hacking campaign, the US Foreign Investment Committee (CFIUS), expanded its authority to learn about the sales of real estate near the US military bases extensively since national security experts believe that China or its proxies could purchase the lands to spy on said bases.

Aside from CFIUS, the hacking campaign reached the Office of Foreign Assets Control as well, which is responsible for sanctions enforcement. Notably, the office recently sanctioned a Chinese company for alleged involvement in cyber attacks.

According to an article published by Bloomberg, Silk Typhoon, a Chinese group, is behind these cyber attacks. The group was involved in an attack on Microsoft Exchange Server as well.

The Chinese embassy in Washington, D.C., spokesperson Liu Pengyu denied Chinese involvement in hacking operations once again.

Chinese cyber-espionage campaign reached the US Foreign Investments Office Read More »

CHINESE COMPANY CRTG: SECURITY RISKS AND INFRASTRUCTURE FAILURES

Research / /

“Civic Idea” is pleased to present a new publication examining the recent entry of the Chinese state-owned company, China Railway Tunnel Group (CRTG), into the Georgian market.

The report delves into the controversies and challenges surrounding CRTG, which is overseeing two critical infrastructure projects: the Kvesheti-Kobi highway connecting Georgia to Russia and the Stepantsminda-Gveleti connecting road.

This study highlights key concerns, including security risks, infrastructure deficiencies, and the company’s history of serious international violations. It provides an in-depth analysis of CRTG’s operations in Georgia and explores its track record in other countries.

CHINESE COMPANY CRTG: SECURITY RISKS AND INFRASTRUCTURE FAILURES Read More »

Biden extends sanctions on Hong Kong officials

Newswire / /

US President Joe Biden has signed legislation extending the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act of 2019 for another five years. The Act authorizes sanctions on key Chinese officials and authority figures, justified by violations of Hong Kong’s autonomy and the suppression of fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and assembly.

The legislation is included in the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which outlines the budget and U.S. military policy for the upcoming fiscal year. Alongside the extension of the Hong Kong Act, the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act and the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act were also renewed.

Hong Kong and Beijing have condemned the U.S. sanctions, warning Washington that such measures are ultimately detrimental to the United States itself. They argue that the sanctions risk undermining the longstanding trade relationship between the U.S. and Hong Kong.

The severity of U.S. sanctions is reinforced by the dominant influence of the U.S. dollar in the global financial system. Individuals targeted by these measures face both financial restrictions and travel bans, amplifying the impact of the sanctions.

Hong Kong’s current Chief Security Officer, Carrie Lam, has stated that she evaded U.S. sanctions by receiving her salary in cash and keeping it at her residence.

In addition to the above, the U.S. State Department announced further sanctions in November, primarily focusing on visa restrictions.

The decision to impose these measures was made by the U.S. after 45 opposition representatives were arrested in Hong Kong on charges of attempting to overthrow the government.

In response, China is imposing sanctions on American individuals whose actions (concerning Hong Kong) it deems unfavorable.

Biden extends sanctions on Hong Kong officials Read More »

Russia is Reducing Investments in One of the Main Sectors of Trade with China

Newswire / /

One of Russia’s main trade channels with China is experiencing significant disruptions as Russia’s war-torn economy, under pressure, has significantly slowed the country’s railway industry. It should also be noted that the railway system is a necessary component for trade between Moscow and Beijing.

During the first nine months of 2023, more than 128 million tons of cargo were transported by rail between the two countries. This represents a 51.5 percent increase over the same period in 2022 recorded last year.

Sanctions have made it more difficult for Russian exports and imports of technology. Russia has increased its imports of military technology and equipment from “Third World” countries, including China. According to the Atlantic Council, increased rail trade with China has thwarted the desired goal of Western sanctions, involving isolating Russia’s economy and fueling Putin’s wartime resource shortages. 

Despite the positive indicators recorded last year, the current situation does not look so favorable. Russia’s rail industry is facing its sharpest slowdown since the Great Financial Crisis, and the trend is on the rise, according to a report from Russian research firm MMI Research. 

MMI data cited by Bloomberg show that the volume of cargo carried by Russian State Railways in the first 11 months of 2024 fell by 5% compared to last year. This slowdown is partly due to Russia prioritizing the transportation of war-related materials. All this hampered the transportation of such important goods as coal and aluminum.

The reduction of investments in Russian railways is another factor that causes the mentioned slowdown. According to the state news agency Tass, high interest rates in the country make project financing even more difficult.

In addition, as reported by Tass, in 2025 Russian Railways plans to allocate only 890 billion rubles ($8.5 billion) for the investment program, which means that compared to 2024, this figure will decrease by 30%. As reported by the Russian news outlet Kommersant, the company may reduce investments by another third by the end of the decade.

The changes are also bad news for Russia’s trade with China, which depends on rail transport due to Western sanctions. Russia invested billions in railways in early 2024 to boost trade with China, but ongoing economic woes continue to hamper progress.

The issues discussed above highlight the growing costs of Russia’s war against Ukraine, which is causing the country many economic challenges. It is also significant that earlier this year, to combat high inflation, the Central Bank of Russia raised interest rates to a record 21%. In a decision last week, the bank kept interest rates on hold because of what they believe are risks of excessive cooling in Russia’s war economy.

It should be noted that Russia’s military strategy is completely dependent on its railway networks. Railroads are logistically critical to Putin’s all-out war in Ukraine. With relatively limited alternatives for large-scale transportation, Russia needs efficient railroads to move troops, equipment, and supplies.

Ukrainian intelligence services and guerrilla groups are working with Russian anti-war groups to strategically target Russian railway logistics points. “Stop the Wagons” is one of the most famous Russian political groups that express their opposition to Russia’s war in Ukraine by sabotaging railway infrastructure.

Russia is Reducing Investments in One of the Main Sectors of Trade with China Read More »

New wave of mass protests in Serbia – students demand release of documents on train station restored by Chinese companies

Newswire / /

After nearly two months of non-stop demonstrations, the largest protest in decades took place in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, on Sunday, December 22. Since the first week of November, protesters have been demanding the resignation of President Vučić and his ruling party, the Serbian Progressive Party. They accuse the current leader of corruption, nepotism and lack of transparency– all of that, as they think, has been s a concomitant event during the renovation works in Novi Sad.

The train station has undergone two renovations in recent years as part of questionable mega projects involving Chinese state-owned enterprises. All these led to poor workmanship and ultimately to the death of 15 people on November 1 when a ceiling collapsed at the Novi Sad train station.  

The Novi Sad railway station underwent a major renovation as part of a Chinese-led project to upgrade Serbia’s railway network, focusing on the route north from Belgrade. This effort is tied to China’s expansive Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at speeding up the transport of Chinese goods to Europe.

Renovation work began in 2021, with parts of the station unveiled during the 2022 election campaign. However, reconstruction continued until July 2024, when local authorities announced that the station had been rebuilt “to European standards.” According to Novi Sad news outlet 021, key documents related to the renovation were classified as confidential.

Chinese investments in Serbia—spanning infrastructure, mining, and surveillance—have often been surrounded by controversy, with persistent concerns about standards and transparency. In 2021, a construction permit was issued for the complete overhaul of the railway infrastructure between Novi Sad and the Hungarian border. The permit mentioned the “reconstruction, adaptation, and extension” of Novi Sad’s railway station but didn’t specify which parts of the building would be impacted. Among the supporting documents was a project titled “Architecture Project for the Extension and Adaptation of the Underpass and Canopy of the Novi Sad Railway Station,” though it offered no additional details.

Within days of the catastrophic event, Transport Minister Goran Sevic, the Serbian State Railways Company, the State Transport Institute, and the Chinese consortium – China Railway International Co. Ltd. and China Communications Construction Company (CRIC-CCCC), which was involved in the renovation of the building, denied the allegations and stated that the ceiling that collapsed was not part of their work. But they were soon exposed. The footage shared on social media indicates that the collapse may have been triggered by the weight of newly installed heavy glass. “It’s not true that no work was done on the awning, because it was covered with glass post-factum,” said geologist and engineer Zoran Đajić, who supervised the railway station reconstruction works until 2023, to the domestic press. 

Although CRIC and CCCC assert that they did not directly construct the canopy, legal experts contend that, as umbrella contractors, they hold responsibility for the performance of their subcontractors. This brings up wider concerns regarding the quality and safety of BRI projects, especially those involving local subcontractors.

When asked about unconfirmed reports of an extraordinary inspection of other projects involving CRIC and CCCC, Vucevic stated, “I will never take part in this potential anti-Chinese hysteria that is being imposed…“. After, he also mentioned sarcastically, that maybe they should arrest all the representatives of Chinese companies.

To eliminate the lack of transparency and identify the main culprits, the participants of the action are demanding the opening of restoration work documents and declarations, as well as holding those responsible for the case accountable.

New wave of mass protests in Serbia – students demand release of documents on train station restored by Chinese companies Read More »

China imposed sanctions on two Canadian institutes and their employees

Newswire / /

China announced sanctions against two Canadian institutes and 20 individuals. These measures targeted the Uygur Rights Advocacy Project, the Canada Tibet Committee, and their employees. With the sanctions, China froze their assets and barred them from entering the country.

The organization working on the rights of the Uygurs frequently talks about the human rights violations from Beijing concerning this mostly Muslim ethnic minority, which includes the mass use of forced labor in camps. The Chinese side denies the accusations.

As for the Canada Tibet Committee, it aims to research the seizure of control of Tibet by China in 1950 and what’s described as „oppressive rule“ in Tibetan areas by international human rights groups and exiles.

Notably, the Chinese sanctions are viewed as countermeasures to Canadian sanctions announced on December 10th. The Canadian side based its decision on Chinese state-led human rights violations against religious and ethnic minorities. In the statement, they focused on Xinjiang, mostly populated by Uygurs, and Tibet, as well as those who face problems for practicing the Falun Gong religion. The sanctions imposed by Canada include the freezing of assets of eight former and current Chinese officials. Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry speaker talked about the history of human rights violations from the Canadian side in response to this step taken by Ottawa and stated, that Canada often „spreads lies about the so-called human rights issue in China“.

China imposed sanctions on two Canadian institutes and their employees Read More »

Arab States Urge China to ‘Take Greater Role’ in Promoting Middle East Peace

Newswire / /

China has been urged to “play a greater role” in promoting peace in the Middle East, with over 20 Arab diplomatic envoys meeting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. According to a Chinese foreign ministry statement released after the meeting on Thursday, the envoys expressed their concern over the “sudden” changes in the Middle Eastern situation and the suffering of the people in the region. They emphasized their expectation for China to help ease the tensions.

Wang Yi highlighted that the Middle East belongs to its people and should not become a stage for major powers to engage in power games. He warned against the region falling victim to geopolitical rivalries.

Addressing the Palestine issue, Wang called for a “comprehensive ceasefire,” the permanent withdrawal of troops from Gaza, and a resolution based on the “two-state solution.” On Syria, he urged all parties to consider the long-term interests of the country and its people by engaging in an open and inclusive political process to prevent the resurgence of terrorism.

Meanwhile, the United States has disclosed that it has 2,000 troops in Syria, more than double the previously reported number, while Israeli airstrikes continue in Gaza, Syria, and Yemen. In Syria, where Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapsed earlier this month, rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, told the BBC that the country was exhausted by war and posed no threat to its neighbors or the West.

China on Tuesday warned the new Syrian government against supporting terrorism after a Syria-based Islamic militant group Turkistan Islamic Party sent a message to Muslims in China’s Xinjiang region, urging them to wage jihad in China. 

Earlier, China stressed the importance of maintaining Lebanon’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity. In September, Wang condemned the “indiscriminate attacks against civilians” by Israeli forces, which had launched several deadly attacks on Lebanon targeting the militant group Hezbollah. “We will always stand on the side of justice and our Arab brothers, including Lebanon,” Wang told his Lebanese counterpart during the annual United Nations General Assembly in New York, attributing the situation to the spillover from the war in Gaza. 

“China and Arab countries are good friends and partners who share the same ideals and work together for development,” Wang said, adding that China would continue to support Arab nations in achieving strategic independence and unity. He pledged efforts to create a peaceful and stable Middle East.

Witnessing the shifting alliances, it is important to recall the previous Chinese-Israeli partnership which was marked by the signing of an “Innovative Comprehensive Partnership” in 2017, making China Israel’s largest trading partner. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu once called this relationship “a marriage made in heaven.”

Financial incentives remain strong for maintaining the relationship. Israel’s ongoing conflict has hurt its GDP and credit rating, complicating fundraising efforts for Israeli firms. China, Israel’s third-largest trading partner before October 7, remains essential to Israel’s economy.

Amidst China’s shifting attitudes towards Israel, some Israeli private sector leaders have even suggested financial repercussions, such as banning Chinese companies from operating in Israel’s ports.

On October 14, 2024, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, spoke with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz at Katz’s request. Katz reaffirmed that developing relations with China is a long-standing policy of Israel and serves the mutual interests of both nations. He also reiterated the Israeli government’s consistent stance on the Taiwan issue. Wang Yi emphasized that China remains committed to a stable and continuous policy towards Israel and is prepared to resume comprehensive exchanges as soon as the situation improves.

Arab States Urge China to ‘Take Greater Role’ in Promoting Middle East Peace Read More »

Evidences of torture, inhuman and degrading treatment and persecution against protest participants in Georgia

New / /

Individual Cases of Torture and Violence against Protestors in Georgia

November 28 – December 18

This document was prepared by “Georgia’s European Orbit” and Human Rights’ Center of the University of Georgia based on publicly available sources, including media footage, victim testimonies, statements from non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The information provided is intended for informational purposes.

🔗 Full report 🔗

Criminal Cases

November 29 - December 17

The present document concerning the ongoing criminal cases is based on publicly disclosed information provided by media outlets and investigative authorities. It is subject to periodic updates in accordance with publicly available data. The document was prepared by “Georgia’s European Orbit” and Human Rights’ Center of the University of Georgia. The information provided is intended for informational purposes.

🔗 Full report 🔗

Evidence of torture, inhuman and degrading treatment and persecution against protest participants in Georgia

December 9-18

This document was prepared by “Georgia’s European Orbit” and Human Rights’ Center of the University of Georgia based on publicly available sources, including media footage, victim testimonies, statements from non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and reports from the Public Defender’s Office. The information provided is intended for informational purposes and reflects the findings of the human rights lawyers based on these sources.

🔗 Full report 🔗

Evidences of torture, inhuman and degrading treatment and persecution against protest participants in Georgia Read More »

Hybrid Threats and Resilience

Research / /

This policy paper, Hybrid Threats and Resilience, delves into the evolving nature of hybrid threats—tactics blending conventional and unconventional warfare such as cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic coercion. These strategies undermine democratic institutions and societal trust, often operating below the threshold of traditional conflict. Highlighting real-world examples, including Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and China’s strategic use of economic leverage, the paper presents a comprehensive analysis of these threats’ implications on global security. It advocates for a whole-of-society response, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, security professionals, and civil society to build resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain democratic integrity in an increasingly interconnected world.

Why read it?

This paper is essential for anyone interested in understanding and combating the modern threats targeting democratic systems. It combines deep analysis with real-world case studies, offering practical solutions to safeguard institutions and societal values. By reading, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of how hybrid threats operate and learn proactive strategies to strengthen resilience and deter adversaries in an era of advanced technology and global interdependencies.

Full paper:

Hybrid Threats and Resilience Read More »

Warsaw Chopin Airport to Phase Out Nuctech Scanners Over Security Issues

Newswire / /

Warsaw Chopin Airport has made the pivotal decision to phase out the security scanners manufactured by the Chinese company Nuctech, a move that was confirmed by an official from the airport on Wednesday. This decision arises from growing security concerns that were highlighted in an assessment conducted by Poland’s Civil Aviation Authority.

Piotr Rudzki, the airport’s communications chief, explained the situation, stating, “Just like the later position of the Ministry of Infrastructure, the recommendation was that these devices may not be safe and therefore it is recommended to refrain from using them.” He shared this information with Reuters but noted that Nuctech did not respond to requests for comment about the decision.

Currently, the airport operates four large Nuctech scanners that are employed for screening checked luggage. However, plans are already in place to replace these machines with new models from a Polish consortium named Dimark-Anglosec, with the transition expected to be completed by March 2025.

Nuctech, known for its production of body and luggage scanners used in airports and ports worldwide, has faced significant scrutiny. In 2020, the company was blacklisted by the U.S. government, which cited national security concerns as the reason for this action. The scrutiny over Nuctech doesn’t stop there. In 2022, European lawmakers in Strasbourg expressed alarm over a proposed deal to purchase Nuctech’s baggage scanners. They advocated for an independent investigation to explore possible spying risks linked to the technology before any commitment to the deal was made.

This development at Warsaw Chopin Airport reflects not only a growing awareness regarding security in air travel but also highlights the critical importance of carefully evaluating the technological partnerships that are fundamental to maintaining safety in the aviation industry.

Warsaw Chopin Airport to Phase Out Nuctech Scanners Over Security Issues Read More »

Scroll to Top