The Trump administration’s decision to revoke the visas of foreign students at Harvard University – an enduring symbol of American global influence – risks further damaging the United States’ "soft power."
Since returning to office in January, President Donald Trump has launched an ideological campaign to dismantle decades of diversity-driven programs both at home and abroad. He has also slashed foreign aid, targeted academic research—raising fears of a brain drain—and curtailed U.S.-funded media, including the once-vibrant Voice of America.
In early May, Trump threatened to impose a 100% tariff on foreign-produced films shown in the U.S. – a move that could have major consequences for Hollywood productions like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which was shot mainly in the UK and South Africa.
Trump has also targeted Washington's Smithsonian museums, accusing them of "racial ideological indoctrination," as well as the Kennedy Center, a key cultural venue in the capital.
Coined by renowned political scientist Joseph Nye – who passed away in May – the term "soft power" refers to influence through attraction rather than coercion. Critics argue that Trump’s cumulative actions, coupled with an ongoing trade war, tarnish America’s global image and reduce its appeal, even affecting tourism.
Condemning the decision against Harvard, Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen noted that "foreign students contribute to our economy, support U.S. jobs, and are among our most powerful soft power tools." She called the move “reckless” and “damaging to our global influence.”
Notable Harvard alumni include Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te. A U.S. court temporarily blocked the visa revocation Friday, but the administration’s broader campaign has already sent shockwaves worldwide.
Record Number of Foreign Students
U.S. universities annually attract hundreds of thousands of international students, especially from Asia. In the 2023-2024 academic year, a record 1.13 million foreign students were enrolled, with India, China, and South Korea providing the largest numbers – primarily in STEM fields.
The reaction abroad was swift. In China, amid intense U.S.-China rivalry, the foreign ministry criticized the move, warning it would harm America’s global image. Hong Kong authorities encouraged their universities to welcome top international students and promised support to facilitate their arrival.
The Trump administration argues institutions like Harvard have become breeding grounds for leftist ideology and wasteful diversity programs. “You send your wonderful child to Harvard, and they come back ready to be a great left-wing activist, but maybe not employable,” said State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
Facing criticism in Congress over foreign aid cuts, Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the policy as an “America First” strategy aimed at optimizing rather than dismantling foreign policy.
In February, Joseph Nye had harsh words for Trump, telling AFP: “He only thinks in terms of coercion and payment. But our success over the past 80 years has also depended on attraction.”
By Léon BRUNEAU / AFP
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