Amid mounting economic pressure and intense competition, some young people in China have embraced the idea of “lying flat” (躺平)—a mindset that rejects relentless striving. Xinhua News Agency recently republished an article by China’s Ministry of State Security claiming that “hostile anti-China forces” are actively promoting this trend in an effort to weaken the country.
According to the article, foreign actors are using online platforms to amplify social anxiety and spread narratives such as “hard work is useless” and “effort leads to loss.” These messages, it argues, are intended to mislead young people, erode their motivation, and undermine core social values. The article further alleges that some overseas organizations fund media outlets, think tanks, and online influencers to promote “lying flat” as a form of resistance, producing content that discourages ambition.
It also contends that while these actors encourage Chinese youth to disengage, their own countries continue to pursue growth through economic policies, talent recruitment, and development initiatives. The article concludes that the promotion of “lying flat” is a deliberate attempt to weaken China’s future by dampening the drive of its younger generation.
Source: Xinhua, April 28, 2026
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