Lawmakers investigate China-backed NGOs

Published: Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 2:34 pm

Congress Investigates Alleged CCP-Linked NGO Funding

Washington, D.C. - A congressional investigation is underway, focusing on the alleged financial ties between certain non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The probe centers on concerns that these organizations may be receiving significant funding from individuals with close connections to the CCP, potentially undermining American national security.

The investigation, led by the Ways and Means Committee, highlights the case of The Peoples Forum, an NGO reportedly receiving over $20 million between 2017 and 2022. The funding is alleged to have come through shell companies and donor-advised funds from an individual residing in Shanghai with deep ties to the CCP. The committee's report expresses concern that this individual works with a foreign propaganda company and participates in CCP forums focused on promoting the party's agenda.

Lawmakers are scrutinizing whether these organizations are using their tax-exempt status to spread foreign propaganda and act as foreign agents, which would be illegal. Several Republican senators have urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate these allegations and determine if the organizations, including Code Pink, should be required to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). Senators have inquired about the DOJ's actions, including whether it has sent letters of inquiry or determination to the organizations and if it has investigated their political activities.

The DOJ's lack of response to these inquiries has raised concerns among lawmakers, particularly given the potential impact on American national security. The investigation also touches upon the alleged use of these NGOs to expand the CCP's influence in the United States, particularly through funding entities that oppose U.S. foreign policy interests. The investigation is also looking into the Biden administration's handling of these concerns, as well as the Trump administration's response.

BNN's Perspective:

The allegations of foreign influence within U.S. NGOs are serious and warrant thorough investigation. While it's crucial to protect free speech and the right to assembly, it's equally important to ensure that foreign entities are not using these platforms to undermine American interests. The DOJ must act swiftly and transparently to address these concerns, regardless of the political affiliation of the administration in power.

Keywords: CCP, China, NGOs, Foreign Agents Registration Act, FARA, The Peoples Forum, Code Pink, Funding, Investigation, National Security, Propaganda, DOJ, Congress, Republican, Biden Administration, Trump Administration

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