Surveillance of digital generationBy Tenzing NyidonSocial networks have become the primary venue for youngsters in Asia to reveal their characters, construct relationships and participate in international discussions. For millions of young people living in areas where the state heavily monitors activities — like China, Myanmar and Vietnam — online digital expression is dominated by censorship, continuous surveillance and the possibility of punishment. The tactics not only show inventiveness, but also the difficulties that minority youth might encounter when digital platforms are used as a means to boost state powers. Tibetan diaspora youth living in India, Nepal, Europe or North America have much more digital freedom compared with those in Tibet and China. Asia’s young digital generation is the main driver of culture and politics in the 21st century.

Source: Taipei Times January 02, 2026 16:23 UTC