Creative thinking

Google/China: Google is trying to cling to its China presence. The search engine is making a last-ditch effort to keep its Chinese licence, which is due to expire on June 30. By no longer automatically directing users to its unfiltered Hong Kong site, Google is trying to comply with the letter of China’s censorship rules. However, its creative solution also puts Beijing on the spot.

It is six months since Google first threatened to quit China after it was hit by a hacking attack that the company said came from within the country. At the end of March, Google started redirecting Chinese visitors to its Hong Kong site, where search results are unfiltered. But the authorities objected to this approach, and have made it clear they will not renew Google's licence under such conditions.

Under the new approach, Chinese web users landing on google.cn will find a stripped-down site featuring a non-functioning search box with a short message saying, “We have already moved to google.com.hk” and “Please save our new website”. Clicking almost anywhere sends the user to Google’s unfiltered Hong Kong site.

Critics may argue that the search giant has retreated from the bold stand it took in January. But while Google’s concession complies with the letter of China's censorship rules, it is hardly in keeping with their spirit. The latest move means Google can argue with Chinese authorities that it made an effort to find middle ground, while telling its users around the world that it has not given in to censorship.

China must now make a decision whether to renew, suspend or terminate Google’s Chinese licence. If China decides to shut down Google it will prove that it is not possible to operate an uncensored search engine in the country.

Google knew that it risked its licence as soon as it started providing Chinese users with access to unfiltered search. By changing tack at the 11th hour, Google is suggesting that it will not leave without forcing China to make its limits clear.