China's stability maintenance system kicks into high gear on ‘sensitive dates’

On politically sensitive dates in China, police and local officials reach out to individuals they believe may cause trouble for the authorities and take measures to silence or control them. Independent journalists, rights activists, lawyers, government critics, petitioners, and individuals who post content online that goes against the government’s interests are targeted on these “sensitive dates,” such as June 4, the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre. Internet censors, many employed by private service providers, keep track of metaphors, code words, and other tactics used to evade censorship.

This is all part of China’s “stability maintenance” system, aimed at preventing social unrest. Security personnel are on high alert during major political events like the National People’s Congress in Beijing, ensuring that potential troublemakers are monitored and controlled. Individuals like Fu Yuxia, who were pursuing grievances against the government, have been detained on charges of “picking quarrels and stirring up trouble” to prevent them from causing disruptions during sensitive periods.

Similarly, individuals like Zan Aizong, who are not actively involved in dissent but are seen as potential threats, are subjected to surveillance and restrictions on their movements. Even renowned figures like political journalist Gao Yu face monitoring and interference from state security police to prevent them from engaging with dissidents and activists.

Sensitive international dates, such as International Women’s Day and International Labor Day, are also closely monitored by Chinese authorities to prevent any potential unrest. In addition, dates like Qing Ming, which are traditionally associated with commemorating dissidents and political figures, are heavily policed to prevent public gatherings. The anniversary of the Tiananmen massacre on June 4 is another highly sensitive date, with censors closely monitoring any mention of it online.

Overall, China’s authorities take extensive measures to ensure that dissent and unrest are quashed before they can escalate, particularly during politically significant dates. The efforts to maintain stability involve surveillance, detention, and restrictions on individuals who are seen as potential threats to the government’s authority.

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