China steps up web censorship

Chinese authorities have blocked the word “Egypt” from searches on Twitter-like microblogging sites in an indication of concern among Communist Party leaders that the unrest there could encourage similar calls for political reform in China. (more…)

Sex and the City rejected by Abu Dhabi

Carrie Bradshaw and her friends are packing their suitcases, putting on their high heels and heading to Abu Dhabi, where luxury hotels and pristine beaches serve as a glamorous backdrop for their next adventure. But the “Sex and the City” sequel was actually filmed thousands of miles away in Morocco, because the film’s premise is just too racy for the conservative, oil-rich capital of the United Arab Emirates. In fact, officials in the Muslim country’s capital may decide the movie is too sexy for their city. (more…)

Will Google’s China move set a new tone?

Google Inc.’s decision to brazenly challenge Internet censorship laws in China may encourage other firms doing business in the Middle Kingdom to adopt a bolder tone, industry experts say.

However, they say potential benefits of the rapidly-developing Chinese market mean that any emerging chorus of dissent against local laws — or perceived local favoritism at the expense of foreign players — could be slow to materialize. (more…)

EU pressures Iran to end jamming, internet censorship

The European Union will put pressure on Iran to stop jamming satellite broadcasts from the BBC and other international channels.

Iran has been blocking news channels broadcast into the country from a French satellite following widespread anti-government protests there. (more…)