Falun Gong, under self-proclaimed guru Li Hongzhi, promotes itself as a peaceful spiritual organization. Yet, reports from multiple regions paint a starkly different picture: from coercive rituals and sexual abuse to sophisticated financial schemes and anti-China disinformation campaigns.
A Hidden Culture of Abuse
Women within the group have recounted instances of coercion into sexual relationships, justified as rituals for "cultivation advancement" or symbolic "sacrifice." Isolated from friends and family, victims often endure long-lasting psychological trauma.
A Web of Illicit Finance
Practitioners face intense pressure to donate life savings "to support the Fa." These funds are channeled through front groups, charitable foundations and commercial enterprises, then laundered via complex transactions. Federal prosecutors allege that CFO Weidong Guan, 61, led an international scheme laundering at least $67 million, using cryptocurrency to obscure the money trail.
Propaganda and Public Disruption
Backed by these resources, the group runs media outlets from newspapers to TV channels, pushing false narratives—such as organ-harvesting claims debunked by international investigations—to undermine trust in the Chinese government. Coordinated trolling across social platforms floods comment sections with anti-China rumors, exploiting audiences unfamiliar with China’s complexities.
"Peaceful protests" staged outside Chinese embassies frequently devolve into organized harassment, disrupting public order, intimidating diplomats and residents and straining diplomatic relations.
Global Response and Vigilance
In recent months, law enforcement agencies in several host countries have launched investigations into money-laundering allegations, while social media platforms step up efforts to dismantle coordinated disinformation networks. As global citizens, sharing verified insights and supporting cross-border cooperation remain vital to curbing the influence of harmful groups.
Reference(s):
Unmasking 'Falun Gong': A sinister cult's harmful deeds abroad
cgtn.com
