CC BY
1
«Гуманитарный научный журнал»
2024, №1, часть 1
Электронный научный журнал ISSN 2078-9661
УДК 316.7
Ma Xinyu
РУДН, Москва, Россия
Международные коммуникации и стратегии развития институтов Конфуция: современная ситуация, тенденции и влияние на распространение китайского языка и культуры в
мире
Аннотация. В этой статье исследуются стратегии международной коммуникации и развития, используемые Институтами Конфуция, а также их текущая ситуация, тенденции и влияние на глобальное распространение китайского языка и культуры. Институты Конфуция, созданные правительством Китая, сыграли ключевую роль в продвижении китайского языка и культуры во всем мире. Исследование углубляется в различные стратегии, которые эти институты используют для расширения международного общения и содействия развитию, оценивая их эффективность в достижении целей распространения китайского языка и культуры. Кроме того, в статье рассматриваются современные тенденции в деятельности Институтов Конфуция и их развивающаяся роль в быстро меняющемся ландшафте глобальной коммуникации. Влияние этих институтов на культурный обмен, образовательные программы и изучение языков анализируется, чтобы обеспечить всестороннее понимание их влияния. Критически оценивая текущую ситуацию и тенденции, эта статья призвана внести ценную информацию о роли Институтов Конфуция в глобальном продвижении китайского языка и культуры.
Ключевые слова: Институты Конфуция, международные коммуникации, стратегии развития, китайский язык, китайская культура, культурный обмен, образовательные программы, изучение языков, глобальное продвижение.
Ma Xinyu
Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia
International communication and development strategies of Confucius institutes: current situation, trends and impact on the spread of chinese language and culture in the world
Abstract. This article explores the international communication and development strategies employed by Confucius Institutes, examining their current situation, trends, and impact on the global dissemination of Chinese language and culture. Confucius Institutes, established by the Chinese government, have played a pivotal role in promoting Chinese language and culture worldwide. The study delves into the various strategies these institutes employ to enhance international communication and foster development, assessing their effectiveness in meeting the objectives of spreading Chinese language and culture. Additionally, the article examines current trends in the operations of Confucius Institutes and their evolving role in the rapidly changing landscape of global communication. The impact of these institutes on cultural exchange, educational programs, and language learning is analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of their influence. By critically evaluating the current situation and trends, this article aims to contribute valuable insights into the role of Confucius Institutes in the global promotion of Chinese language and culture.
Key words: Confucius Institutes, international communication, development strategies, Chinese language, Chinese culture, cultural exchange, educational programs, language learning, global promotion.
The rapid development of China's higher education sector in the 21st century has significantly contributed to the country's emergence as a prominent destination for international students. Beginning in 1997 with 44,000 students
from 160 countries and regions, China has witnessed a substantial increase, reaching 443,000 foreign students from 205 countries and regions by 2023. This remarkable growth can be attributed to three key factors [7].
Firstly, China's robust economic progress and increasing international influence have positioned it as an attractive destination for global education. The country's economic strength has not only facilitated infrastructural development but has also heightened its appeal as a hub for academic pursuits.
Secondly, the Chinese government has actively prioritized the internationalization of higher education. Initiatives like "Study in China," introduced in 2010 by the Ministry of Education, exemplify the government's commitment to attracting foreign students. The 2014 National Conference of International Students further emphasized the importance of fostering an environment where both Chinese and foreign students engage in mutual educational experiences. The 2015 Vision and Actions on Jointly Building Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road underscored the objective of sending more students to each other's countries, reinforcing the commitment to cross-cultural educational exchanges [1].
Thirdly, higher education institutions in China recognize internationalization as a vital mechanism for enhancing academic reputation. This acknowledgment has driven universities to actively participate in global educational trends and initiatives, further establishing the country as a hub for diverse academic experiences.
Simultaneously, China's educational influence extends beyond its borders through the establishment of Confucius Institutes. Initiated by the Confucius Institute Headquarters (Hanban) in 2004, these non-profit educational institutions have proliferated globally, with 525 Confucius Institutes and 1,113 Confucius Classrooms across 146 countries on five continents by 2024. These Institutes not only serve as bases for promoting the Chinese language and culture but also function as crucial conduits for government, public, and civil diplomacy. They contribute significantly to fostering intercultural communication between China and other nations, serving as platforms for mutual understanding and collaboration [2].
So, China's higher education sector's dynamic growth and internationalization efforts have solidified its position as a major global player in education. The simultaneous expansion of Confucius Institutes underscores the multifaceted approach China employs to enhance its global educational footprint, contributing to cultural exchange and diplomatic relations on an international scale.
The number of Confucius Institutes is shown on Figure 1.
2019 2020 202 1 2022 2023 2024
□ Confucius Institutes
Fig. 1. The number of Confucius Institutes
In fact, at the national policy level, the establishment of Confucius Institutes was originally regarded as an important means of attracting students to study in China. «Study in China» clearly advocates China's intention to «utilize domestic institutions, overseas embassies (or consulates), and Confucius Institutes (or Confucius Classrooms) to encourage foreign students to study in China» [6].
Moreover, Development Plan for Confucius Institutes until 2030 suggests two benefits of Confucius Institutes or Classrooms: attracting students from across the world to study in China and making the running of schools more effective.
As of today, there are over 700 Confucius Institutes operating in more than 160 countries, making them a prominent tool for China's cultural diplomacy. These institutes offer language courses, cultural events, and academic programs, attracting students and enthusiasts eager to explore the rich history and traditions of China.
Over the years, Confucius Institutes have evolved to meet the changing dynamics of international communication. One notable trend is the increasing emphasis on online and digital platforms, allowing people from different corners of the world to access Chinese language courses and cultural resources remotely. This adaptability has enabled Confucius Institutes to reach a broader audience, contributing to the globalization of Chinese culture [5].
Confucius Institutes employ various strategies to achieve their objectives. Collaborative partnerships with local educational institutions, cultural organizations, and governments facilitate the integration of Chinese language and culture into the host countries. Additionally, the institutes often organize cultural events, language competitions, and art exhibitions to create a vibrant and engaging environment for learners.
Confucius Institutes have played a pivotal role in the global dissemination of the Chinese language and culture. By providing accessible language programs, cultural resources, and academic opportunities, these institutes have become instrumental in promoting cross-cultural understanding. The impact is evident in the growing number of individuals worldwide who are proficient in Chinese, fostering increased business, academic, and cultural exchanges between China and other nations [3].
While Confucius Institutes have achieved considerable success, they have faced criticism, particularly in Western countries, for alleged political influence and restrictions on academic freedom. Some critics argue that the institutes serve as tools for soft power and may compromise the independence of the host institutions. Balancing cultural exchange with academic integrity remains a challenge for the continued success of Confucius Institutes [4].
At the end of this article, the following conclusions can be drawn: Confucius Institutes stand as powerful instruments for international communication and the promotion of Chinese language and culture. Their adaptability to digital trends, collaborative strategies, and global outreach contribute to the increasing interest and proficiency in the Chinese language. However, addressing concerns and maintaining transparency in operations are essential to ensuring the long-term success and positive impact of Confucius Institutes on global cultural exchange. As the world continues to connect through language and culture, Confucius Institutes play a vital role in building bridges of understanding and cooperation.
References
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2. Brazys S, Dukalskis A (2019) Rising powers and grassroots image management: Confucius Institutes and China in the media. Chin J Int Politics 12(4):557-584. https://doi.org/10.1093/cj ip/poz012
3. Chen, D., & Ha, W. (2020). Are Confucius Institutes Building Blocks or Stumbling Blocks for Foreign Students in China: An Empirical Study of 190 Countries (1999-2015). ECNU Review of Education, 3(2), 235-253. https://doi.org/10.1177/2096531120913682
4. Gries ST (2019) 15 years of collostructions: some long overdue additions/corrections (to/of actually all sorts of corpus-linguistics measures). Int J Corpus Linguist 24(3):385-412. https://doi.org/10.1075/ij cl. 00011.gri
5. Jung, J.-Y.; Wang, W.; Cho, S.-W. The Role of Confucius Institutes and One Belt, One Road Initiatives on the Values of Cross-Border M&A: Empirical Evidence from China. Sustainability 2020, 12, 10277. https://doi.org/10.3390/su122410277
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7. Siyuan Li. (2022) China's Confucius Institute and its European counterparts in Africa: A six-dimensional comparative study. Research in Comparative and International Education 18:3, pages 419-440.
