Editor's note: The thriving internet industry has exposed a rising number of young users to diverse content via short videos, digital games, and many mobile apps. To enhance minors' digital literacy and shield them from harmful content, China has introduced a dedicated chapter in its revised minor protection law. Since 2020, over 20 pieces of legislation, regulations, and policy documents have directly addressed the issue.
Moreover, both the Ministry of Justice and the Cyberspace Administration of China have sought public feedback on multiple occasions about the forthcoming regulation aimed at enhancing online protection for minors. The draft regulation was approved by the State Council on Sept. 20, 2023.
Here, China.org.cn explores the evolving patterns of minors' internet usage in China over recent years and delves deeper into associated laws, as well as highlights from the forthcoming regulation for the online protection of minors.