ABC News Comments on Communist China

A History of Suppression

China's Communist Party has a long history of suppressing dissent and limiting freedom of expression. In recent years, the government has cracked down on internet freedom, detaining and imprisoning activists who criticize the government or its policies. The government also controls the media, and journalists who report on sensitive topics risk being harassed, intimidated, or imprisoned.

Crackdown on Internet Freedom

The Chinese government has implemented a number of measures to crack down on internet freedom. These measures include: * Blocking websites and apps that are critical of the government or its policies, such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. * Requiring internet users to register with their real names and providing their personal information to internet service providers. * Censoring online content that is deemed to be politically sensitive or harmful to the government's image. * Detraining and imprisoning activists who use the internet to organize protests or criticize the government.

Control of the Media

The Chinese government also controls the media. All media outlets in China are owned and operated by the state, and journalists are required to follow government guidelines on what can and cannot be reported. Journalists who report on sensitive topics risk being harassed, intimidated, or imprisoned.

Impact on Freedom of Expression

The Chinese government's crackdown on dissent and suppression of freedom of expression has had a significant impact on the ability of Chinese citizens to express their views and access information. The government's actions have created a climate of fear and self-censorship, and many people are afraid to speak out against the government or its policies.

International Criticism

The Chinese government's crackdown on dissent and suppression of freedom of expression has been widely criticized by the international community. The United States, the European Union, and other countries have condemned the government's actions and called for the release of political prisoners. The United Nations has also expressed concern about the government's crackdown on dissent.