China Intensifies Online Crackdown Amid Economic Concerns, Targets Dissent and 'Negative Sentiments'

Beijing Escalates Internet Censorship Campaign

The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) has initiated a sweeping two-month 'Clear and Bright' campaign aimed at curbing online content deemed to 'maliciously incite' negative emotions, hostility, or economic pessimism. This intensified crackdown comes as internet users increasingly express concerns over China's ongoing economic slowdown. The campaign targets a broad spectrum of online expression, including rumors about the economy, fabricated information, and 'sensational conspiracy theories.'

The move follows disciplinary actions taken by the CAC against major social media platforms such as Weibo, Kuaishou, and Xiaohongshu (Rednote) for alleged content violations. These platforms, along with others like Douyin, Bilibili, and WeChat, are now under increased scrutiny to audit trending topics, recommended feeds, and comment sections.

Influencers and Economists Silenced Over Economic Commentary

In a notable development, several prominent online influencers and economists have been subjected to bans and content removal for discussing China's economic challenges. Among those affected this month are educational influencer Zhang Xuefeng, lifestyle influencer Hu Chenfeng, and travel vlogger Lan Zhanfei, who collectively commanded tens of millions of followers across various platforms. Their posts and videos have been removed, with platform administrators citing 'content violations' without providing specific details.

Economists who offered critical perspectives on the economy have also faced censorship. In December 2024, a commentary by Gao Shanwen, chief economist at state-owned SDIC Securities, on weak consumption, unemployment, and youth struggles, disappeared from the internet after going viral. Similarly, access to a video social media account of Fu Peng, chief economist at Northeast Securities, was blocked after his comments on falling property prices and their impact on consumption. Reports also indicate the disappearance of Zhu Hengpeng, a director at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, after he allegedly made disparaging remarks about the economy in a private chat group.

Economic Headwinds and Government's Narrative Control

The heightened censorship coincides with significant economic challenges facing China. The country's economy has struggled with a prolonged property crisis, high local-government debt, and sluggish consumption. Industrial output and consumer spending have shown signs of weakness, with retail sales growing at their slowest pace since November 2024. Youth unemployment has also been a persistent concern, leading to movements like the 'lying-flatists' (躺平系), which advocates for a simpler, slower-paced life and has also been targeted by censors.

The Chinese government views discussions critical of the economic situation as a threat to national security and social stability. The National Security Department and the Ministry of Public Security have become increasingly involved in economic affairs, framing negative economic discussions as attacks on China's system and designating dissenters as potential spies. The government aims to control narratives and guide public opinion, with state media focusing on positive portrayals and downplaying economic difficulties.

The Evolving 'Great Firewall' and Digital Authoritarianism

China's internet censorship infrastructure, commonly known as the 'Great Firewall,' has continuously evolved to block access to foreign websites and filter domestic content. This system employs advanced filtering techniques, including algorithmic censorship and real-time monitoring. While the government asserts that these measures are necessary to maintain stability and prevent the spread of rumors, critics argue that such censorship infringes on citizens' rights to information and expression.

Despite the sophisticated control mechanisms, some studies suggest that attempts to upgrade the Great Firewall have not always yielded desired results, and that tighter control can inadvertently lead to increased efforts by citizens to bypass censorship. However, the overall trend indicates a tightening grip on online discourse, with the government leveraging its digital authoritarianism to shape public sentiment and maintain political control.