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On Saturday, July 13, China unveiled new measures to control internet content, specifically targeting video apps and social media platforms in an effort to purge material deemed harmful to children. The ruling Communist Party has a history of strictly regulating the domestic web, censoring content it considers vulgar, ostentatious, or politically subversive.
The Cyberspace Administration of China announced the launch of a two-month “Clear and Bright” campaign aimed at “effectively strengthening the protection of minors on the internet and creating a healthier, safer online environment.” This initiative will focus on addressing significant issues related to short-video and livestreaming platforms, social media sites, online shopping platforms, app stores, smart devices for children, and online controls for minors.
The campaign will target various problematic behaviors, including broadcasting videos that glorify school bullying, adding violent and gory content to classic children’s cartoons and songs, and generating profits from underage “internet celebrity kids.” Additionally, it seeks to eliminate “softly pornographic” and sexually suggestive products from e-commerce platforms and information that encourages harmful friendships or promotes harmful values through maliciously fabricated online jargon and vulgar buzzwords.
“We must pay close attention to new manifestations of problems specific to minors and jointly uphold a good online ecology,” the Cyberspace Administration stated.
This latest crackdown coincides with the start of the summer school holiday for Chinese children and follows several similar campaigns in recent years. In April, another “Clear and Bright” campaign was launched against influencers who deliberately displayed extravagant lifestyles filled with money. The government has also significantly limited the amount of time children under 18 can play online games and has targeted e-commerce platforms selling undesirable products, such as software that bypasses official internet controls.
China’s ongoing efforts to regulate internet content reflect its commitment to maintaining strict control over online activities and ensuring a safe digital environment for its younger population.