Returnee talent should be welcomed, not scorned
In recent years, a growing number of Chinese scientists and engineers who once studied or lived abroad have chosen to return to China, spurred by shifting geopolitical realities and tightening academic environments in the West, and the increasingly attractive research ecosystem at home.
While many welcome these returning minds, others indulge in cynical speculation, suggesting, for instance, that some returnees are "spies" or that they are merely "coming back to retire and enjoy the fruits of other people's labor". These narratives share a common tendency to distort reality and undervalue the contributions of overseas-educated talent.
This view overlooks the essence of why talent flows: people go where opportunities and potential are greatest. Today's China is fertile ground for innovation, equipped with advanced research facilities, robust support policies and a merit-based system that values genuine contribution over mere credentials. The bar is high, and those who return must meet stringent standards of originality and excellence.
Another claim suggests that returnees are "rejects" from foreign systems, not elite researchers, and that they are only treated as "treasures" because of the halo effect of their overseas experience.
This is not only dismissive but also factually flawed. In recent years, many outstanding Chinese scholars abroad have faced rising discrimination under the guise of "national security", especially in scientific fields viewed as strategically sensitive. Far from being marginal figures, they were targeted precisely because they were successful and seen as "threats". Offering them a platform back home is both beneficial for them and the country.
Moreover, China has outgrown the era of blindly idolizing overseas degrees. Real work achievements matter now, no matter where a person comes from. And it is neither practical nor fair to demand that only "top-tier" talent return. China's modernization construction requires expertise at all levels. Anyone who contributes meaningfully should be welcomed and respected.
Meanwhile, some have gone so far as to label going abroad for education as an act of disloyalty, arguing that even returning later does not absolve one of "betrayal".
This kind of thinking is narrow and harmful. It has long been China's policy to support talents going abroad for studies and to encourage them to return after their studies, while giving them the freedom to make their own decisions. Knowledge knows no borders. While scientists may have a homeland, scientific collaboration is inherently international. To cherry-pick the phrase "scientists have a motherland" while ignoring the "science knows no borders" part is to twist its meaning.
At a time when some countries are pursuing "small-yard, high-fences" policies and "decoupling", it is all the more imperative for China to stand firmly on the right side of history, and stay committed to openness, cooperation and mutual benefit.
Some suggest that giving prominence to returnees is unfair to domestic talent. But this reflects a zero-sum mindset. The reality is, China's development stage offers vast opportunities for all. Overseas-educated and domestically trained professionals each have their unique strengths — a global perspective and local grounding, respectively — that can complement each other. Meanwhile, the goal of employers should be to break down identity-based biases and build a truly fair, dynamic and high-performing talent ecosystem.
To further reform the systems and mechanisms for talent development, the country should ensure that the selection, recruitment, cultivation and advancement of talent are fair, just and transparent. In order to unleash innovation and creativity, efforts should be made to cultivate a steady stream of talent, unlock their potential, and ensure their abilities are fully utilized.
People's Daily
