China Launches Campaign to Regulate 'Negative' Social Media Content

China Launches Campaign to Regulate 'Negative' Social Media Content
Above: The Xiaohongshu Technology Co. logo at the company's headquarters in Shanghai, China on Sept. 15, 2025. Image copyright: Raul Ariano/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-China narrative

China's cyberspace campaign protects users by tackling malicious incitement of negative sentiments online. It addresses false information about disasters, emergencies, public policies, and finance, as well as exploitative celebrity gossip, vulgar livestreams, sensationalized fandom attacks and doxxing. By curbing content that exaggerates pessimism, nihilistic views, or social conflicts, the initiative reduces negativity and fosters a safer, more rational online environment — especially for youth.

Anti-China narrative

China’s campaign against so-called "killjoys" unfairly targets young people understandably embracing "lying flat" and "letting it rot" mindsets to cope with burnout, depression and bleak prospects. Instead of addressing the mental health and economic pressures driving these behaviors, authorities trample rights and punish online dissent, risking further disillusionment and social unrest. Analysts warn that continued suppression could worsen economic stagnation and trigger wider instability.

Metaculus Prediction


The Controversies




© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.16.0

© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.16.0