Rather than give up, though, Beijing has added a new weapon to its censorship arsenal: If the government can’t control Internet users, it may still be able to control the Internet. This year, the government has stepped up threats against foreign news sources that mark the anniversary, warning of “serious consequences” for reporters who cover it.
Foreign media organizations with bureaus in China have little choice but to take that saber-rattling seriously, since Beijing has followed through on similar threats in the past. In recent years, the Chinese government has grown more assertive in setting rules for foreign journalists and then revoking visas for correspondents who run afoul of its wishes. But the global media should stand tall in its rejection of China’s tactics, and today’s world-wide acknowledgment of the Tiananmen Square anniversary will send an important message to Chinese civilians — and the censors in their ruling party.