China
Michael Anti: Behind the Great Firewall of China
References
An Overview of Internet Regulation in China
The content that is allowed on the Internet in China has always been strictly regulated; unsuitable content is organized under twelve general categories. As a result, guerrilla-style digital warfare is waged between the Chinese government and high-tech libertarians. The goal of Internet regulation for the authorities is to provide a “healthy” environment for both political and economic development.
Controls tighten as Internet activism grows
The expansion of Internet access in China has presented the authorities with greater challenges in their attempts to censor and control the online activities of Internet users. This report examines the growing trend towards China assigning greater responsibilities of surveillance and monitoring to companies such as Internet Cafes, Information Service Providers (ISPs) and other enterprises. It also examines the detention of a number of prisoners of conscience involved with Internet activism, in particular activism related to the dissemination of information concerning Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
The Great Firewall of China
Senators John McCain and John Kyl, both Arizona Republicans, argue that the Internet by its very nature promotes grassroots democracy. In an op-ed piece they wrote, “By enabling discussion, debate and criticism of our governments, the Internet allows us to practice in cyberspace the essence of democracy.” Their comments were directed toward the Communist Party in China and American technology companies that enable and execute government censorship in the digital realm.