China's CAC Launches Two-Month Campaign to Control Divisive Online Content
China's Cyberspace Administration (CAC) has launched a two-month campaign to control online content that fuels antagonism, violence, and pessimism. The clampdown, which started this month, targets influencers, fan communities, and online users promoting divisive sentiments.
The CAC's campaign extends to posts discussing social conflicts. Comments like 'stay single and childless for peace of mind' and 'all men are alike' have been deemed as inciting extreme group antagonism. Influencers accused of promoting anxiety and pessimism through their content have been targeted. This includes 'lying-flatists' advocating for frugal lifestyles, fan communities, and Gen Z online trolls (喷系少年). Within a week, four prominent influencers with tens of millions of followers were banned.
The crackdown also targets online communities for promoting negative sentiments. The youth unemployment rate, which reached 18.9 percent in August, is believed to be linked to the move. Overseas analysts suggest growing discontent among young people may have influenced the decision. The campaign targets all online channels, including social media posts, video and live-streaming platforms, hashtags, comments, trending topics, and message boards.
The CAC aims to stop the 'selling' of antagonism and negative sentiments, as per a state-affiliated online bulletin. The campaign is expected to continue for two months, impacting various online platforms and communities. The record-high youth unemployment rate and growing discontent among young people are seen as potential factors driving the crackdown.
Read also:
- CEO Efe Cakarel of film platform Mubi addresses controversy regarding new investor and Israeli military ties, establishes advisory board and fund to safeguard artists under threat.
- FCHO & Keepmoat Homes Unveil 36 New Affordable Rentals in Oldham's Werneth
- India-UAE Startup Exchange Launched, Boosting Global Expansion for Indian Innovators
- Microsoft Patches Actively Exploited SharePoint Zero-Day Flaws
