What must NGOs do to avoid government scrutiny in China?

To operate successfully and avoid government scrutiny in China, NGOs must generally function within areas that do not challenge the policies or authority of the Chinese government. This means they need to align their activities with the government's priorities and acceptable boundaries, thus ensuring they do not become entangled in politically sensitive issues that could provoke a response from authorities.

Engaging with foreign media can often lead to increased scrutiny rather than less, as it may draw attention to their activities from government perspectives. Similarly, disregarding local laws and regulations is not a viable strategy, as it risks legal repercussions and potential shutdowns. Focusing solely on international human rights issues might provoke the government, especially if those issues are seen as a challenge to the state's legitimacy or authority. Therefore, by operating within the framework set by the government and avoiding direct criticism or challenge of its policies, NGOs can maintain a stable environment for their work in China.