The Five Levels of Expression in China

Wu Si, a Chinese scholar, must frequently deal with controls on expression. In his view, freedom of expression in China can be separated into five levels: The first level is the pretty scene painted by the Constitution of the People's Republic of China, in which Article 35 stipulates that “citizens of the People’s Republic of China enjoy freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of association, of procession and of demonstration.” This phrase is often referred to as the “six great freedoms” (六大自由), and no limitations whatsoever are placed upon them [in the language of the Constitution]. On the face of it, this looks very attractive. But ... Read more