Resources

What Is Foreign Influence?

Foreign influence is a complex and multifaceted concept, and there are different ways it can manifest. At a high level, foreign influence refers to efforts by foreign governments, organizations, or individuals to sway or impact US policies, decisions, or activities to serve their own interests. This can be done through a range of illicit tactics, such as attempts to illegally acquire intellectual property, manipulate research data, or coerce organizational or institutional initiatives, to serve their own interests.

Primary areas of concern when it comes to foreign influence, as it relates to the University of South Florida:

What is undue Foreign Influence in Higher Education?

Foreign influence in higher education refers to actions by foreign entities, governments, or individuals to obtain a benefit or advantage that may not be intended for them, potentially through illegal means. Higher education institutions have a responsibility to identify and manage these risks to ensure that their research and academic activities are conducted with transparency and in accordance with legal and ethical standards. To this end, many institutions establish policies and procedures for reporting and managing foreign influence. Foreign influence can pose a threat to the integrity of academic research, and it's important for universities to remain vigilant to ensure that their work remains free from external manipulation. 

How is Florida combatting undue Foreign Influence?

Florida is combatting undue foreign influence in higher education by implementing House Bill 7017, which establishes regulations and reporting requirements for state universities to prevent foreign influence in Florida higher education system. The bill requires state universities to develop a plan to address and prevent undue foreign influence and to report annually on their efforts to the Board of Governors.