The correct answer is a. China because the Chinese government actively blocks its citizens’ access to popular new media sites like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. This practice is part of the government’s broader internet censorship and control efforts, often referred to as the “Great Firewall of China.”

The Chinese government restricts access to various foreign websites and social media platforms to control the flow of information and maintain authority over what its citizens can access and share online. Let’s explore why this answer is correct and why the other options are not applicable:

a. China – Correct Answer

China is well-known for its extensive and rigorous internet censorship, which includes blocking access to popular international websites and social media platforms.

The government uses a combination of technical measures and human censorship to control online content and communications. This censorship, commonly referred to as the Great Firewall of China, encompasses various aspects, including:

1. Blocking Social Media:

China actively blocks access to major social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and many others. Chinese citizens cannot freely access or use these platforms without the use of circumvention tools like virtual private networks (VPNs).

2. Censoring Content:

The Chinese government employs automated filters and a large workforce to monitor and censor online content. This includes filtering out politically sensitive content, news critical of the government, and discussions that may promote dissent.

3. Restrictions on News and Information:

Access to international news websites is also limited. Chinese citizens have restricted access to many global news outlets, and state-approved news sources dominate the media landscape.

4. Cybersecurity and Surveillance:

The Chinese government closely monitors online activities, conducts surveillance, and employs technologies like facial recognition and artificial intelligence for surveillance purposes. This is aimed at tracking the online behavior of citizens.

Now, let’s discuss why the other options are not correct:

b. India – Not Correct

As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, India did not block access to popular international new media sites like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. India has a large and active user base on these platforms, and they remain accessible to Indian citizens. However, it’s important to note that internet regulations and policies can change, so the situation may have evolved since then.

c. Afghanistan – Not Correct

Afghanistan did not have a reputation for actively blocking access to popular international social media and new media sites like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Prior to the Taliban takeover in August 2021, Afghanistan had relatively open access to the internet, and social media use was prevalent among its citizens.

The internet landscape in Afghanistan may have been affected by the political changes that occurred in 2021, but it is not traditionally associated with extensive internet censorship.

d. Australia – Not Correct

Australia does not block access to popular international social media and new media sites like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. While Australia has its regulations and policies related to internet content and cybersecurity, it does not employ extensive censorship measures that would restrict access to these platforms. Australian citizens generally have open access to these websites and social media platforms.

In summary, the correct answer is a. China because the Chinese government actively blocks access to popular international social media and new media sites, including Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

The Chinese government’s strict internet censorship measures are well-documented and are part of its broader efforts to control online content and information flow within the country. While internet regulations and practices may change over time, this was the situation as of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021.