Fact Check: At least 12 authors faced obscenity charges in Anhui Province last year.

Fact Check: "At least 12 authors faced obscenity charges in Anhui Province last year."

What We Know

In recent months, there has been a significant crackdown on authors in Anhui Province, China, particularly those writing in the danmei genre, which focuses on queer male romance and erotica. Reports indicate that as of January 1, 2025, over 50 writers had been detained by police in Anhui since June 2024 for allegedly producing and selling obscene materials for profit (South China Morning Post). Among those detained, at least 12 authors were specifically mentioned as facing obscenity charges (ABC News). The legal framework in China allows for severe penalties for those convicted of such charges, with authors earning over 250,000 yuan (approximately USD 34,700) facing potential lifetime imprisonment (All About Publishing).

Analysis

The claim that "at least 12 authors faced obscenity charges in Anhui Province last year" is corroborated by multiple sources. According to a report by Deccan Herald, local police in Anhui summoned several writers over the alleged offense of disseminating obscene content, confirming that a number of authors were indeed charged. The ABC News article further supports this by stating that the crackdown specifically targeted female authors of homosexual literature, which aligns with the danmei genre's characteristics.

The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their established reputations in journalism. The South China Morning Post is a well-regarded news outlet known for its coverage of Asian affairs, while ABC News is a major international news organization. Both have a history of reporting on sensitive topics in China, including LGBTQ+ issues and censorship, which adds credibility to their claims.

However, it is important to note that the situation is complex. The crackdown on danmei authors has sparked public outrage and debate over censorship laws in China, with many arguing that the definitions of "obscene materials" are often vague and subject to interpretation by authorities (Radio Free Asia). This ambiguity raises concerns about the fairness of the charges against these authors and the broader implications for free speech in China.

Conclusion

The claim that "at least 12 authors faced obscenity charges in Anhui Province last year" is True. This is supported by multiple credible sources that document the arrests and charges against these authors as part of a broader crackdown on queer literature in China. The legal context surrounding these charges highlights significant issues regarding censorship and the treatment of LGBTQ+ content in the country.

Fact Check: At least 12 authors faced obscenity charges in Anhui Province last year.