China aims for the “civilized” internet with a focus on “socialist values” – Xinhua

SHANGHAI, Sept. 14 (Reuters) – China will step up efforts to promote a “civilized” Internet by strengthening oversight of news sites and online platforms and encouraging them to promote socialist core values, state news agency Xinhua reported Tuesday.

After years of rapid growth and rapid change, Chinese regulators have tried to strengthen control over society with stricter oversight of various sectors, from technology to education and entertainment.

Cyberspace should be used to promote education about the ruling Communist Party and its achievements, according to guidelines published by the State Council, the news agency reported.

A clear attitude should be taken against “historical nihilism”, defined as any attempt to use the past to question the main role of the party or the “inevitability” of Chinese socialism, and good moral values ​​should be promoted, such as advertising cases involving model workers, he said.

Behavioral norms in cyberspace should also be strengthened by cultivating ethics and rules that conform to fundamental socialist values, he added, adding that efforts should be made to help young people use the Internet “correctly” and with security ”.

Internet platforms will need to improve self-discipline and strengthen governance with respect to content platforms, such as live streaming, and encourage the public to participate in oversight.

The formulation, review, and implementation of laws such as those related to cybercrime and child protection would also be accelerated, according to Xinhua.

Brenda Goh Reports; Edited by Andrew Heavens, Robert Birsel

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