China intimidated UK university to ditch human rights research

China pressured Sheffield Hallam University to halt research on human rights abuses against Uyghurs. Staff reported threats from individuals linked to China's National Security Service, demanding an end to sensitive studies. This intimidation lasted over two years and led to restricted access to university resources in China, impacting student recruitment.

In 2024, the university chose not to publish research led by Professor Laura Murphy on forced labor. Murphy later pursued legal action, claiming the university compromised her academic freedom for financial gain. After receiving an apology, she decided to drop her case. Concerns remain about academic freedoms amid external pressures faced by UK universities.