Undermining freedom of expression in China. The role of Yahoo!, Microsoft and Google

Index Number: POL 30/026/2006
Date Published: 19 July 2006
Categories: China

This briefing provides an overview of the use of the Internet as a tool to deny freedom of expression in China, focusing on both the Chinese government's suppression of dissent and on the role of Yahoo!, Microsoft and Google in collaborating with the authorities. The actions of these Internet companies are contrasted with their proclaimed values. The conclusion drawn is that they have, through their actions, directly and admittedly contradicted their values and stated policies. A series of recommendations are proposed to enable them to act in accordance with international human rights norms.