Lim Teck Ghee
Two developments, one unfolding and the other about to take place, are not only emblematic of the Trump effect on U.S. politics and policy making. They also have consequential ramifications for America’s soft and hard power standing in international relations.
The first relates to the Trump administration’s action in halting Harvard University’s ability to enrol international students.
“I am writing to inform you that, effective immediately, Harvard University’s Student and Exchange Visitor Programme certification is revoked,” U.S. Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem said in a letter shared on X.
Noem, although providing no evidence, asserted that the Trump administration is holding Harvard accountable for “fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus”.
Quite surprisingly, this latest pro Israel and anti-China target of the Trump administration has drawn supporters of President Trump in the Western media outlets to join the almost unanimous condemnation of the move as a disastrous politically motivated attack on higher education and a damaging blow to America’s global standing. For now, a federal judge has temporarily blocked the order. But the announcement and ongoing legal battle is continuing to generate media coverage around the world.
Reaction to Charges Against Harvard
Alongside the numerous reports of the widespread anxiety and confusion among Harvard’s international student body and incoming cohort, including from Asia, critics argue that the ban will undermine Harvard’s and the broader U.S. higher education system’s appeal as a top destination for international talent.
Concerned American educationists have noted that international students contribute significantly to their university revenue and research, and they point out that the ban will have severe economic and academic consequences, especially if extended to other universities and colleges with international student enrolments.
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