This criminal charge, as provided in Article 293 of the PRC Criminal Code, has historical roots in the notorious Mao-era crime of 'hooliganism' (流氓罪). It is now broadly and arbitrarily applied in China to suppress speech and behaviors perceived by the authorities as threats to the political and social order. Since Xi Jinping came to power in late 2012, this charge has been applied expansively. It is not limited to targeting rights defense actions like petitioning and organized protests;...
