Summary

China has intensified its crackdown on erotic fiction writers, particularly those creating danmei (gay romance/erotica), with over 50 arrests in Anhui province since June 2024.

At least 10 individuals have been sentenced, with penalties reaching up to 4.5 years in prison. Many writers published on Taiwan-based Haitang Literature, which has faced disruption.

Under China’s strict laws, earning over 250,000 yuan (~$34,500) from such works can result in a life sentence, though reduced sentences are possible if profits are repaid.

Critics argue the campaign undermines freedom of expression and inflates sales figures to justify harsh punishments.

    • SkunkWorkz@lemmy.world
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      1 month ago

      Accepting gay people requires an open mind. An open mind can undermine an authoritarian society

    • Fades@lemmy.world
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      1 month ago

      It really doesn’t have much to do with gay at all, but rather different than the norm which makes it an easy target to blame and punch down on. Hitler went after trans and gays first too, same with the fascists in power in the US today.

      Quite literally a tale as old as time.

    • john89@lemmy.ca
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      29 days ago

      Scapegoats.

      Why address the real problems facing working people when you can just blame the gays/immigrants/women/drugs.

      Anything but addressing the elephant in the room: the disparity in wealth keeps growing everyday.

    • Buddahriffic@lemmy.world
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      1 month ago

      Move the battlefield to one where the outcome doesn’t affect you and you’ll never really lose.

      Plus, while you’re winning, it being a normal thing will mean you’ll get plenty of blackmail material on those who it does affect but who also prefer the connections that staying on your side gives. And you can prosecute your opponents that openly defy the ban.