Xi Jinping Vows 'Resolute Crackdown' on Online Misconduct in China

President Xi Calls for 'Clean' Cyberspace

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has vowed to 'resolutely crack down' on online misconduct and cultivate a 'clean' cyberspace, according to state media reports on Saturday, November 29, 2025. The pronouncement came after a Communist Party meeting held on Friday, November 28, 2025, where Xi emphasized the critical role of a well-governed online ecosystem in China's development and security. He stated that online misconduct 'pollutes social ethos' and is an 'important task in building China into a cyber power,' bearing on 'the country's development and security, as well as the vital interests of the people'.

Recent Regulatory Actions and Targets

The pledge follows a series of recent actions by Chinese authorities against social media companies for their content. Beijing mandates that social media platforms strictly moderate content to prevent the circulation of anything deemed subversive, vulgar, pornographic, or generally harmful. In the months leading up to Xi's statement, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) had already announced a two-month campaign aimed at regulating 'malicious incitement of conflict and the promotion of violence and vicious currents' across social media. The CAC also took action against platforms such as ByteDance-owned Jinri Toutiao and Alibaba's UCWeb for allegedly displaying harmful content. Other popular digital platforms, including micro-blogging platform Weibo, short video app Kuaishou, and Instagram-like Xiaohongshu, were reportedly penalized by the CAC for neglecting content management duties.

Broader Context of Cyberspace Governance

President Xi's remarks are consistent with China's long-standing policy of stringent internet regulation. He reiterated the need to 'dare to draw the sword, resolutely crack down on such behaviour, sever the profit and industry chains behind it, and eliminate the soil and conditions that allow it to grow'. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to build a 'cyberspace civilization' and maintain social stability and national security. Previous campaigns have targeted various forms of online misconduct, including AI misuse, as seen in the 2025 'Qinglang' operation, online issues within the auto sector, and illegal online news services. China's approach to internet governance emphasizes a balance between freedom and order, asserting the right of each country to choose its own internet rules.

Commitment to Strict Online Regulation

The latest directive from President Xi underscores China's unwavering commitment to tightening its grip on the digital sphere. The government views a 'clean and upright cyberspace' as fundamental to its national interests and societal well-being. This ongoing regulatory push is expected to continue shaping the landscape for internet companies and users within China, with a focus on content control and the elimination of perceived online threats.