China
China’s authoritarian regime has become increasingly repressive in recent years. The ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is tightening its control over the state bureaucracy, the media, online speech, religious groups, universities, businesses, and civil society associations, and it has undermined its own already modest rule-of-law reforms. The CCP leader and state president, Xi Jinping, has consolidated personal power to a degree not seen in China for decades, but his actions have also triggered rising discontent among elites within and outside the party. The country’s budding human rights movements continue to seek avenues for protecting basic rights despite a multiyear crackdown.
Freedom in the World — China Country Report
China is rated Not Free in Freedom in the World 2021, Freedom House's annual study of political rights and civil liberties worldwide.
Freedom on the Net — China Country Report
China is rated Not Free in Freedom on the Net, Freedom House's comprehensive study of internet freedom around the globe.
China Special Reports
Beijing's Global Megaphone
The Expansion of Chinese Communist Party Media Influence since 2017
The Battle for China's Spirit
Religious Revival, Repression, and Resistance under Xi Jinping
The Politburo's Predicament
Confronting the Limitations of Chinese Communist Party Repression
Policy Recommendations: China's Global Media Influence
The Chinese Communist Party has expanded its efforts to shape news content around the world through promoting its own propaganda,, suppressing critical viewpoints, and obtaining control over key content-delivery systems. The following policy recommendations could help counter the negative impact of Beijing’s foreign media influence campaigns.
News & Perspectives:
Hong Kong: Freedom House Condemns Convictions of Prodemocracy Figures, Worsening Crackdown
Press release
April 2, 2021
Hong Kong: Proposed Electoral Changes an Assault on Democratic Principles
Press release
March 9, 2021
New Report: Transnational Repression Is a Growing Threat to Global Democracy
Press release
February 4, 2021
In the Media
Explore the China Media Bulletin
The monthly China Media Bulletin provides unique insight on censorship, media freedom, and internet freedom issues related to the People's Republic of China, drawing on both English and Chinese-language sources.