Ai Weiwei defends China visit and warns of rising censorship in Western ‘democracies’

Chinese artist Ai Weiwei has responded to the controversy surrounding his recent interview with the German press, following his first visit to China in a decade. His remarks have sparked intense debate both within China and across the Western public sphere.

Speaking to journalists in Cambridge, Weiwei pushed back against interpretations that his trip to Beijing signaled a “rapprochement” with the Chinese leadership.

Reflecting on the criticism he faced during the visit, Weiwei noted, “While my name was previously never mentioned in China, this interview became a major point of contention. Some suggested that the West had abandoned me, that I had failed to find success there, and that I was returning to China seeking solace. However, I was a guest on this visit, and I am grateful they permitted my return.”

In his interview with Berliner Zeitung, Weiwei stated that he encountered positive developments during his time in China—a reality he claims some critics find difficult to digest. “I encountered situations in China that were pleasing, and most people cannot accept this. A dissident or a freedom fighter also has the right to hold their own opinion,” he said.

“One is born a dissident; it is not a temporary status”

Addressing accusations that he has distanced himself from his “dissident identity,” Weiwei emphasized that being a dissident is an existential position rather than a situational one.

“One is born a dissident; it is not a temporary status,” the artist remarked. “To me, a dissident is someone who holds a differing opinion. I am always in disagreement with any form of authoritarian state or behavior—not just regarding the Chinese government, but including the US, Europe, or Germany.”

When asked why he had tempered his criticism of China, Weiwei explained: “I like to criticize when I am taking a risk. Currently, they cannot really do anything to me. I am in a much better position, and I will not exploit that. There is a Chinese proverb that counsels staying away from things within one’s power. I was away for ten years. If I were to offer criticism now, it would be superficial.”

China’s economic and social transformation

Providing an analysis of China’s structural state, Weiwei argued that the fundamental nature of the administration has not evolved. “China has never fundamentally changed,” he asserted. “The same party still dictates the narrative. Sometimes political cadres or economic growth change; they shift shape. It is like a plant that grows but remains the same plant.”

The artist also touched upon the country’s economic stagnation and low birth rates, noting that China aims to redefine its role within the global system.

“China wants to change its economic model. They no longer want to provide cheap labor to the world or be a slave market at the service of globalization; they are targeting a high-skilled workforce. Regarding the low birth rates, I believe it reflects the increasing importance people are placing on individual freedom,” Weiwei said.

Referencing his book On Censorship, set to be released by Thames & Hudson on February 1, Weiwei argued that censorship is not exclusive to “authoritarian regimes” but is becoming pervasive within Western democracies.

Weiwei detailed the obstacles he has faced specifically due to his statements on Israel and Gaza. “I speak about Gaza, I speak about Israel, and within a few days, my exhibitions are canceled. This happened not only in the UK but in France, the US, and Germany. Yet, at the start of the war, I had only analyzed US-Israel relations. Professors, students, musicians, and actors who voice certain truths are being censored. This is happening in so-called democracies.”

Stressing that art should, by its nature, be provocative, Weiwei added: “Art is not a massage. There is nothing wrong with a massage—sometimes we need one—but that is not art. Without freedom of expression, I would suffocate; I need it to breathe.”

Weiwei also critiqued the political stance of Germany, where he lived for a long time, arguing that the Berlin government holds no moral high ground.

Describing Germany’s policy toward Israel as “insincere” and “arrogant,” the artist remarked: “Germany behaves very strangely regarding its relations with Israel. It is highly artificial and presumptuous. Every nation has made mistakes and committed crimes in its history. Therefore, principles must not be forgotten.”

Weiwei noted that he promised his mother he would visit China every year and expressed hope that he could keep this promise despite the political discourse.

Announcing his future plans, the artist revealed his intention to travel to Ukraine to complete an artwork and a film, despite the ongoing war. “The lack of electricity, heating, or hot water cannot stop me. That is how I grew up. I feel a kinship with the people there,” he concluded.