CHINA’S NEWS censors plan to set up a blacklist of Chinese journalists found breaking reporting rules, the latest weapon in the government’s armoury to control the media.
Li Dongdong, a deputy chief of the General Administration of Press and Publication, said the proposed rules strengthened regulations for Chinese journalists and would include a “full database of people who engage in unhealthy professional conduct”.
Quoted on the China News Service agency, Ms Li said: “People entered into the transgressor list will be excluded from engaging in news reporting and editing work.”
As the economy slows and discontent grows, there are fears of growing unrest this year, which sees the 20th anniversary of the crushing of the democracy movement in 1989.
Chinese media is strictly controlled by the government, but the opening up of the media market means newspapers and magazines have to compete to survive and the stricter regulations are aimed at stopping a rash of fake news stories.
The rules are also aimed at stopping people masquerading as reporters to extort money and bribes. However, some analysts believe the rules will also be used to muzzle over-zealous reporters and editors who try to bend the country’s strict propaganda rules.
The rules do not apply to foreign reporters.