Abstract
In recent years, the Chinese government has intensified its control over cyberspace and freedom of expression in the guise of national security. Significant policies introduced in 2024 include the implementation of the “Internet Certificate” system, revisions to the “Counterespionage Law,” and the “Law on Guarding State Secrets,” along with increased regulation of online streaming, social media platforms, and user behavior. While these developments align with the government’s long-standing stance on cyberspace and have precedents, the result has been to make an already insurmountable “great firewall” even more formidable.
The officials claim these measures aim to protect national interests, combat cybercrime, and maintain social stability, but they also have serious negative consequences. These policies blur legal boundaries, expand government power, and lack effective oversight, which could infringe upon citizens' privacy and freedom of speech. This situation has raised widespread concerns both domestically and internationally.
In this context of increasing emphasis on “national security” and that “everyone is responsible for counter-espionage,” the government has created an atmosphere encouraging the public to report suspected espionage activities. This societal atmosphere has led to a sense of uncertainty and fears of citizen surveillance and rising risk of internal societal conflict. Moreover, foreign enterprises and their employees are particularly concerned about inadvertently violating regulations, which could result in penalties. This further elevates the risks for foreign entities operating and investing in China and could even put pressure on non-profit and academic research collaborations, adversely affecting China's future economic and technological development.
Keywords: Control of Cyberspace; “Internet Certificate” system; Social Surveillance