University lecturer’s career on hold while China #MeToo claims are investigated
Accused denies allegations after he is accidentally identified on Chinese social media, and says he is prepared to seek legal redress if necessary
A university lecturer with postings in China and Australia is at the centre of a number of accusations as part of the growing #MeToo movement and his new job is on hold while they are investigated.
Social media in China has exploded with home-grown allegations in the wake of a spate of sexual assault and harassment claims against high profile men in the United States.
The latest person to be accused in China is Non Arkaraprasertkul, a Harvard-trained anthropologist who has worked at the University of Sydney and New York University Shanghai – a joint venture between NYU and East China Normal University. He denies the claims.
One of his alleged victims is a Chinese woman who spoke to the South China Morning Post on condition of anonymity about an encounter she said occurred a year ago at the University of Sydney.
“Linda” was in the second semester of her graduate programme when she says she was invited to the office of Arkaraprasertkul, a former instructor, for a chat.
While there, she says, he said he had feelings for her and kissed her, despite her saying “no”.
“I was so shocked and confused. My brain stopped working. I instinctively pushed him and ran away,” Linda said.