China’s Battle Against Anti-Black Racism in the Cyberspace

Chinese Government Urged to Combat Anti-Black Racism on Social Media

Introduction

Human Rights Watch has called on the Chinese government to acknowledge and condemn the prevalent issue of anti-Black racism on Chinese social media platforms. The organization argues that Chinese authorities and platforms have a responsibility to address online hate speech and racism, in line with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Human Rights Watch’s analysis found that major Chinese social media platforms, including Bilibili, Douyin, Kuaishou, Weibo, and Xiaohongshu, do not adequately address racist content despite their own community standards on hate speech.

The Problem of Anti-Black Racism on Chinese Social Media

Racist content targeting Black people, both inside and outside of China, has become increasingly common on Chinese social media platforms in recent years. Many videos and posts portray Black people through offensive racial stereotypes, perpetuating discriminatory narratives. Some content even denigrates interracial relationships, particularly Black men in relationships with Chinese women. These platforms have also been found to harbor accounts that impersonate Black people, spreading false and hostile information.

Impersonation and Harassment

The issue of impersonation is particularly concerning, as it allows for the spread of racist sentiments under the guise of Black individuals. Some netizens have used racist symbols and language commonly found in the United States, further magnifying the problem. The targeting of individuals who denounce racism or support victims is another issue that exacerbates the online harassment Black people face on Chinese social media.

The Responsibility of Chinese Social Media Platforms

Chinese social media platforms, such as Bilibili, Douyin, Kuaishou, and Weibo, have published community standards that explicitly ban content promoting racial or ethnic hatred and discrimination. However, these platforms have not adequately responded to Human Rights Watch’s inquiries regarding their policies and actions to address anti-Black racism. Despite the Chinese government’s sophisticated internet censorship regime, which is known as the “Great Firewall,” the prevalence of racist content indicates a failure on the part of these platforms to enforce their own guidelines.

Limited Response and Inadequate Policies

Human Rights Watch’s findings suggest that the platforms either are not meeting their own standards or that their policies are inadequate when it comes to addressing racist content. The lack of action from Chinese social media platforms is in stark contrast to the Chinese government’s condemnation of online racism when it triggers international backlash. The government’s response to previous instances of racist content has been rigid, arbitrary, and opaque, failing to address the underlying issue.

The Role of the Chinese Government

While the Chinese government publicly condemns racism, it must also address its own role in perpetuating discriminatory attitudes. State media, such as China Central Television (CCTV), has been criticized for featuring blackface in its productions, cementing racist stereotypes. The Chinese government, as a signatory to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), has a responsibility to condemn racial discrimination and undertake measures to eliminate it.

Recommendations for the Chinese Government

Human Rights Watch calls on the Chinese government to take affirmative or nonpunitive measures to counter hate speech online. These measures should include public education, promotion of tolerance, countering misinformation, and strengthening security to protect those who are threatened. It is essential that the government tailors its response to the specific context, addressing the issue of anti-Black racism proportionately and effectively.

The Importance of Public Rejection and Condemnation

The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination emphasizes the importance of high-level public officials formally rejecting hate speech and condemning the hateful ideas expressed. This plays a vital role in promoting a culture of tolerance and respect. In addition to formal rejection, governments should undertake information campaigns and educational policies that highlight the harm caused by racist hate speech. Training for police and legal systems is also crucial to ensure familiarity with international norms protecting freedom of expression and norms against hate speech.

The Impact on Individuals and the Need for Change

The prevalence of online hate speech and racism takes a toll on Black individuals. It instills fear and distress, impacting their daily lives and mental well-being. The Chinese government should recognize the urgency of addressing this issue and work towards creating an environment that values diversity, promotes racial equality, and ensures justice for all.

Conclusion

The issue of anti-Black racism on Chinese social media platforms calls for immediate attention and action. The Chinese government, as well as social media platforms, must acknowledge and confront the problem. Failure to do so undermines the principles of human rights and perpetuates harmful discriminatory attitudes. By taking affirmative measures and fostering a culture of tolerance and respect, China can work towards a more inclusive society that values diversity and combats racism.

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