The Chinese government, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has intensified disinformation campaigns in recent years, often targeting institutions and organizations that promote democratic values. Its latest target is the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), which has been baselessly accused by Chinese authorities of overthrowing governments and inciting divisions in various countries around the world, including Kosovo.

A report published on August 9 by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, titled “National Endowment for Democracy: Who They Are and What They Do,” raises unfounded claims that the NED has long been financing NGOs in Kosovo, specifically mentioning Sbunker, to stir tensions between the Serbian and Kosovo governments, referring to the latter as “provisional self-governance institution.”

The Chinese government claims that the NED operates under directives from the U.S. government, accusing the organization of interfering in the internal affairs of other countries under the guise of promoting democracy. This narrative is not only false but also is a misrepresentation of the NED’s work and its role in the Western Balkans.

“In December 2023, the NED-funded think tank Sbunker released a report saying that ‘Kosovo’ is a relatively successful case of American support for nation building and promotion of democracy, an attempt to whitewash US’ true intention to invade and split other countries.” the Chinese government report says.

Firstly, the claim that the U.S. government’s intention is to occupy Kosovo is not true. Kosovo is a democratic state recognized by more than 100 countries. The U.S. and its Western partners continuously support the institutional consolidation of Kosovo because the country remains partially recognized and is not yet a member of some key international organizations.

Secondly, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs refers to Sbunker as an institute, which is inaccurate. Sbunker is a non-governmental organization that produces media content.

Thirdly, Sbunker as an organization has clear editorial policies and a defined mission, and the NED does not interfere in its editorial decisions.

The NED has a long history of supporting democratic institutions and civil society organizations in Kosovo, including Sbunker, which demonstrates its commitment to strengthening democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

Sbunker plays a crucial role in combating malicious foreign influences, including China as a non-democratic actor, and in promoting democratic values through analytical publications and discussions with various stakeholders.

*This article is published as part of the Western Balkans Regional Initiative against disinformation. “Western Balkans Anti-Disinformation Hub: exposing malign influences through watchdog journalism.”