China Launches Crackdown on Pessimistic, Malicious Social Media Content
China’s top internet regulator has announced a sweeping two-month crackdown on social media, targeting what it described as “malicious incitement of conflict” and content promoting “negative outlooks on life such as world-weariness.”
Beijing has long required social media companies to tightly moderate content, banning posts considered subversive, vulgar, pornographic, or harmful.
The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) said on Monday that it would enforce disciplinary and punitive measures against platforms found guilty of neglecting content management.
Earlier this month, penalties were announced against three popular digital platforms — Weibo, Kuaishou, and Xiaohongshu (Rednote) — which were accused of promoting celebrity news and “undesirable” content. Authorities, however, have not disclosed the nature of the punitive actions.
The CAC explained that the campaign aims “to regulate the malicious incitement of conflict and the promotion of violence and vicious currents.”
Issues listed include exploiting trending topics to associate identity, region, or gender with stigmatising narratives, spreading “rumours” about the economy and public policy, and exaggerating negative cases to promote pessimism.
Weibo had previously warned users in late 2023 against posting “pessimistic” views about the economy.
The notice also referred to online trends such as “lying flat” and “letting it rot,” popular among young people rejecting China’s gruelling work culture in favour of relaxed lifestyles.
In July, local authorities in Zhejiang province even cautioned comedians against stirring gender discord in their performances.
According to the CAC, the ultimate goal of the crackdown is to “foster a more civilised and rational online environment.”
AFP
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
