A new Chinese regulation effective January 1 will seal records of minor offences like drug use, detaching them from personal identity information. While aimed at privacy protection, it has sparked public backlash, particularly over drug users.
The new regulation states that records of minor offences covered by the law “shall not be provided to any organisation or individual, nor disclosed publicly” except where required for “the investigation needs of relevant state authorities” or “queries by relevant units in accordance with national regulations”. Violations are not criminal offences and typically result in fines and up to 15 days of administrative detention. But such records have historically followed individuals via their ID details, impacting job prospects and daily lives.
With the rule set to take effect in less than a month, public backlash has emerged, especially concerning drug users. Critics argue it may reduce deterrence against drug abuse and question its broader implications. References in keywords to experts like Zhu Zhengfu from Tsinghua University School of Law and Zhao Hong, along with outlets such as The Beijing News and The Utopia, highlight diverse viewpoints in the debate.
Rooted in the Public Security Administration Punishments Law, the measure seeks to balance enforcement with personal rights. The reaction underscores tensions in China between privacy safeguards and public safety.