Historicizing Internet Regulation in China: A Meta-Analysis of Chinese Internet Policies (1994-2017)

Despite growing scholarly attention, few studies have systematically investigated the historical evolution and patterns of Chinese Internet policies. We created the first comprehensive database of national-level Chinese Internet laws and policies between 1994 and 2017 and conducted a meta-analysis of 358 policy documents using content analysis and social network analysis. We found that (1) among the 71 government agencies involved in Chinese Internet regulation, there are central-peripheral dynamics as well as complex networks of collaboration; (2) although more than 40% of regulations concern information services, the overall regulatory emphasis has evolved from Internet infrastructure to online content to digital economy; and (3) while Chinese Internet policies historically follow the principle of "rule by directives" instead of "rule of law," dominated by low-level policies, leading to both arbitrariness and adaptability, recent state efforts aim to streamline policymaking. Overall, our study contributes to debates on three core issues in Internet governance from a Chinese perspective: Who (should) regulate the Internet? What issues (should) fall under regulatory oversight? And how should the Internet be regulated via what mechanisms?