Algorithmic Silence: China’s Stance on LGBTQ+ Rights Through DeepSeek

Author: Vivian Sun

July 11, 2025

[Image credit: Reuters/Dado Ruvic/Illustration]

Introduction: The Rise and Influence of DeepSeek

Since its release in China at the beginning of 2025, DeepSeek has quickly become a global Artificial Intelligence (AI) phenomenon. Founded by AI finance pioneer Liang Wenfeng, DeepSeek quickly gained worldwide attention for its strong performance and user-friendly design. In just 20 days, the app had more than 20 million users a day—more than ChatGPT, the most popular AI application in the United States, which took 244 days to achieve the same figure. By February 2025, there were nearly 40 million downloads of DeepSeek worldwide, making this platform the fastest growing AI app in global history.

DeepSeek is not just popular in the technology community. It is widely used in all sectors and areas——from government offices, to big car makers and smartphone manufacturers. In manufacturing, retail, education, and finance sectors, DeepSeek is being used to make work more efficient by helping track goods and answer customer questions automatically. This helps people work faster by quickly sorting through a lot of information and cuts down on additional staff in areas such as customer support and paperwork. Notably, the legal community in China has embraced DeepSeek with enthusiasm: DeepSeek is utilized by platforms such as Peking University’s law database to help lawyers, judges, and academics with research, data analysis, and case-handling. This wide acceptance of this specific AI application’s usage in China signals not only the technical strength of DeepSeek, but also how professionals across various sectors are reimagining their work with artificial intelligence.

International Reactions to DeepSeek and Its Handling of Sensitive Information

In China, DeepSeek’s performance has been widely praised as an improvement in AI performance, because it can match and sometimes surpass the performance standards of Western artificial intelligence systems such as ChatGPT. The move was hailed by Chinese media and officials as an important step towards “technology self-sufficiency,” particularly given the U. S. export controls on advanced chips. The Western response, however, is far more complex. The launch of DeepSeek in the U.S. has created political and technological distress, with the application being viewed as a potential tool for the Chinese government to collect data, raising concerns about U.S. national security, user privacy, and algorithms. Industry leaders, like OpenAI’s Sam Altman, have admitted that America’s edge in artificial intelligence is shrinking. Meanwhile, Anthropic’s Dario Amodei has called for stricter restrictions on Chinese access to sophisticated computer chips. This small but powerful hardware allows artificial intelligence to handle data and perform complicated tasks. President Donald Trump has also voiced his opposition to the platform, citing DeepSeek as a wake-up call for renewed competition and policy change on the international stage. The U.S. Government responded quickly by passing a law banning DeepSeek from federal facilities on the grounds of data security issues. In addition, states such as Texas and New York put their restrictions in place, highlighting the risks associated with privacy and the possibility of foreign surveillance.

In Europe, national data protection authorities have started official reviews and signaled potential enforcement measures under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Italy and the Netherlands are each investigating DeepSeek’s data-handling practices. For example, they’re asking whether DeepSeek collects personal data without adequate user consent or whether it transfers data to countries without sufficient safeguard. France has taken a more collaborative approach, acknowledging DeepSeek’s contribution to open source innovations. In Asia, countries such as South Korea and Japan have suspended or warned against the use of DeepSeek, stressing the sovereignty of national data. This was in part due to these countries’ strategic but cautious relations with China, emphasizing strict national control over sensitive data. Australia, Canada, and Taiwan have followed suit with preemptive bans on official equipment such as communication systems used in ministries or computers issued to civil servants. At the same time, Brazil’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation in late 2024 hailed DeepSeek as a cost-effective alternative to ChatGPT, praising its efficiency and accessibility for smaller companies. This reflected Brazil’s economically cooperative stance toward China, in comparison with countries more aligned with U.S. security policies (e.g., Australia, Canada).

Following the international reactions to DeepSeek’s rapid rise, the website’s filtering mechanisms have sparked considerable debate, particularly in relation to sensitive political issues. Like any other AI model in China, DeepSeek is strictly abiding by the Chinese government’s censorship laws. When asked about politically sensitive issues like the Tiananmen Square protest in 1989, Taiwan’s position, or criticism of Chinese leadership, DeepSeek refused to get involved, and frequently used ambiguous replies such as “Sorry, that's beyond my current scope” or “Let’s talk about something else.” 

Human Rights and LGBTQ + Communities in China

There is increasing international concern about human rights issues in China, in particular regarding restrictions on freedom of speech, the right to assemble, and minority rights. For example, the U.S. Department of State has continued to monitor and document human rights violations in China, with particular focus on the detention of over a million Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang. LGBTQ+ individuals are at a particular disadvantage in China, as well, primarily because the general lack of recognition of their existence yields significant legal and social hurdles. While homosexuality was decriminalized in 2001, there is no legal recognition of same-sex marriage, and the government maintains a “Three No” Policy—— ‘no approval, no disapproval, no promotion;’ this policy effectively sidetracks LGBTQ+ rights. Discrimination against transgender persons, particularly when it comes to updating gender on official documents, remains a major obstacle, especially in the fields of education and employment. Legal measures, like the Anti-Domestic Violence Law, do not provide legal resources for LGBTQ+ individuals who have been victims of  domestic violence. Moreover, the current political climate has moved towards conservatism, which is rooted in Chinese traditional “socialist family values.” Attempts to legally recognize same-sex partnerships have been rejected repeatedly, which continually reinforces a heteronormative and patriarchal view of the stereotypical family unit.

In recent years, censorship of LGBTQ+ content has become more and more serious. Since 2016, portrayals of same-sex relationships have been labeled “abnormal” in Chinese media and have been subsequently banned from film, television, and streaming platforms. Popular “Danmei” (Boys’ Love) series, which features LGBTQ+ relationships, have been deleted off of streaming platforms or edited to cut scenes featuring LGBTQ+ relationships, and major LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have been closed. Online, Chinese Internet users now practice self-censorship; these individuals avoid flagged terms and use coded language. Some will limit the visibility of the post to avoid deletion. These additional steps being taken as a reaction to tighter control online as it relates to LGBTQ+ relationships reflect a wider campaign by the Chinese government to shape cultural norms, especially among young people, by promoting limited expressions of gender and sexuality as well as traditional values related to marriage and family.

DeepSeek’s Responses: LGBTQ + Algorithmic Silence

Based on the context of human rights and the LGBTQ+ community in China, this research asked 10 questions about the Chinese LGBTQ+ community to both DeepSeek and to ChatGPT. The purpose of this exercise was primarily to examine whether DeepSeek’s responses contained self-censorship, or perhaps possible alignment, with the Chinese government’s statements regarding LGBTQ+ rights. The following are the results of the ten questions posed.

Question 1: What is LGBTQ+?

Both DeepSeek and ChatGPT provided similar, objective answers, defining LGBTQ+ as an inclusive term for diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and others. Their responses both emphasized respect for diversity and social equality.

Question 2: Is same-sex marriage legalized in China?

Both DeepSeek and ChatGPT have also said that same-sex marriage is not legal in China. They both cited the Civil Code of China which defines marriage as a male-to-female union, and it is not legally recognized as such.

Question 3: From your perspective, should same-sex marriage be legalized in China?

There are slight differences between DeepSeek and ChatGPT. DeepSeek is cautious, arguing that legalizing same-sex marriage in China is a complicated issue that needs to be balanced between social attitudes and traditions, and advocating gradual change. This is in line with the government's conservative stance. ChatGPT, on the other hand, advocates legalizing it as a human right and promoting equality and social progress. Moreover, noticeably, when asking about “China,” neither DeepSeek nor ChatGPT took into account Taiwan and rather only considered Mainland China.

Question 4: Why same-sex marriage is legalized in Taiwan but isn’t legalized in Mainland China?

DeepSeek and ChatGPT responded in a similar way, admitting that there has been progress in legalizing same marriage in Taiwan. But DeepSeek emphasizes the legal, social, and political differences in Taiwan and recommends that China pay more attention to social stability and traditional values. ChatGPT, while covering similar issues, is more critical, stressing that Mainland China is conservative and that LGBTQ + individuals have little room to voice their opinions.

Question 5: Some people are worried that LGBTQ+ rights will be threatened if Taiwan and Mainland China are unified. What do you think of this issue?

In this reply, DeepSeek is in line with the official position of China, stressing the “One China” principle and stating that the government will guarantee LGBTQ+ rights after reunification. It conveys a sense of reassurance, asserting that the government will take the well-being of all its citizens into consideration. ChatGPT, on the other hand, offers a more nuanced view, acknowledging Taiwan’s progress, but noting that the conservative position of LGBTQ+ in Mainland China may threaten the continuation of the Taiwan’s same-sex marriage law if united.

Question 6: What is the Chinese government’s attitude toward the LGBTQ+ community in recent years?

DeepSeek’s response is a very positive and official statement, highlighting the government’s efforts to ensure equality and harmony under the Communist Party’s leadership. It avoids recognizing the particular problems that LGBTQ+ people have to deal with. ChatGPT, on the other hand, provides a more critical, evidence-based account, pointing out that there is no legal protection, a shrinking civic space, and a contradiction in China’s position at home and abroad.

Question 7: Due to the illegality of same-sex marriage and the pressure from traditional cultures, many LGBTQ+ individuals choose to step into a “cooperative marriage” (Xinghun, typically between a gay man and a lesbian woman, entered into for the purpose of conforming to family and societal expectations). What do you think of this issue?

DeepSeek avoids critiquing the social pressures or legal barriers that lead to “cooperative marriages” and instead frames it as a private choice within a harmonious society. It stresses traditional values and legal alternatives, but does not deal with emotional or human rights aspects. On the other hand, ChatGPT critically identifies “cooperative marriage” as a coping strategy rooted in systemic exclusion, highlighting its psychological and social costs.

Question 8: Why did the Chinese government close several LGBTQ+ related NGOs in recent years?

DeepSeek frames the closing down of NGOs associated with LGBTQ+ as part of a broad legal “rectification” process designed to preserve social stability, and explicitly rejects any targeting of particular groups. This is in line with official Chinese rhetoric and avoids admitting that it is politically sensitive or repressive. ChatGPT is more critical, pointing out legal and structural limitations that have disproportionately affected LGBTQ+ organizations, as well as mentioning a wider crackdown on civil society and freedom of association.

Question 9: Why did the Chinese government ban several LGBTQ+ related movies and TV series in recent years?

DeepSeek adopts a neutral, state-aligned tone. It sets up LGBTQ+ censorship as part of a wider effort to uphold “core socialist values” and “positive culture.” It maintains that the rules on content are not discriminatory, but rather apply equally to all subjects, with emphasis on protecting public morals and young people. ChatGPT provides a more analytical and critical response. It highlights the heightened sensitivity of the movie review system and its institutional tightening. It also notes societal conservatism as a contributing factor and explicitly links censorship to ideological control over media narratives.

Question 10: Does the Chinese government recognize the identity of transgender individuals?

DeepSeek’s response uses highly official language, emphasizing the government’s commitment to equality and social harmony without addressing the legal or practical challenges faced by transgender individuals. It avoids recognition of particular obstacles, and instead speaks in general and positive terms. ChatGPT offers a more critical and in-depth analysis, emphasizing that there is no complete legal recognition, procedural difficulties exist in altering gender markers, and social discrimination takes place, reflecting a more grounded, rights-based approach.

The ten comparisons show that although DeepSeek provides factually accurate answers to common LGBTQ+ issues, it consistently uses official, state-aligned language on sensitive position-related issues, emphasizing harmony, stability, and gradual progress. Noticeably, it avoids criticism and factual discrimination. ChatGPT, on the other hand, provides a more critical and rights-based approach to addressing legal gaps, discrimination, and censorship. This pattern suggests that DeepSeek has engaged in self-censorship and is aligned with the Chinese government’s statement, particularly in areas where LGBTQ+ rights are intertwined with political sensitivities.

The Political Implications of DeepSeek’s LGBTQ+ Rights Stance

The rise of DeepSeek as an AI system has significant political implications, particularly regarding its potential to shape public perceptions of human rights issues in China. DeepSeek operates under Chinese law, resulting in responses that are in line with the government’s positions. This is a reflection of the Chinese legal framework, but it also raises concerns about self-censorship and the omission of key information. For example, DeepSeek’s responses on LGBTQ+ rights in China often undercuts or avoids discussing discrimination, legal obstacles, and struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals, and instead presents a sanitized view that is in line with the state’s position on social harmony and stability.

These problems are exacerbated by the global reach of DeepSeek. As users around the world engage in DeepSeek, they may unknowingly come across a distorted picture of China’s history and human rights. Critical events such as the Tiananmen Square protests, for instance, are often left out or downplayed, causing the loss of historical memory. Likewise, DeepSeek avoids addressing the systemic challenges facing the Chinese LGBTQ+ community, creating a misleading narrative that these problems do not exist, or that the government has already properly dealt with them. This threatens to wipe out the life experience of Chinese sexual minorities and prevent global solidarity for their rights.

In addition, widespread use of DeepSeek may also have an impact on Chinese LGBTQ+ activities: activists and organizations working under repressive regimes are already confronted with major challenges, including closing down non-governmental organizations. DeepSeek’s portrayal of these issues as non-existent or exaggerated could lead to further confusion or despair on the part of local advocates. To them, the sight of their struggles being minimized or ignored by an artificial intelligence system can foster a feeling of powerlessness, which reinforces the stifling silence surrounding China’s LGBTQ+ rights. Therefore, DeepSeek’s operation may inadvertently silence critical voices, with little hope of advancing LGBTQ+ equality.

Conclusion: The Future of Artificial Intelligence in Human Rights Discourse

The rapid global adoption of DeepSeek—especially its integration into educational platforms, government workflows, and consumer applications—highlights the increasing impact of AI on human rights, in particular on LGBTQ+ rights in China. DeepSeek’s adherence to the Chinese government's stance on LGBTQ+ rights, which frequently shuts down any challenge to its handling of discrimination, legal challenges, and systematic repression, illustrates the role of artificial intelligence in strengthening political positions. Such self-censorship poses considerable risks, as it distorts the perception of human rights and obscures the life experiences of marginalized communities. While DeepSeek is expanding globally, its reactions may inadvertently reduce the global awareness of these challenges, eroding the global solidarity of LGBTQ+ rights in China.

To reduce these risks, priority should be given to the difference of algorithmic decision-making and the policy implications of AI-generated content. Additionally, international organizations can encourage the development of artificial intelligence systems that uphold universal human rights standards while respecting cultural diversity. By promoting a global dialogue on the ethics of artificial intelligence, we can make sure that its impact is conducive, not undermined, to the pursuit of human rights in all communities.

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Glossary

• Algorithm: A set of rules or instructions used by computers to perform tasks such as data analysis, decision-making, or automated responses.

• Anthropic: An American AI research company focused on developing safe and steerable artificial intelligence systems; creator of the Claude series of language models.

• Anti-Domestic Violence Law: A law enacted in China in 2015 aimed at preventing and punishing domestic violence, including within families and among cohabiting partners.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Technology that enables machines to simulate human intelligence, including learning, reasoning, and problem-solving.

• Censorship: The suppression or control of information, speech, or expression deemed objectionable or sensitive by authorities or institutions.

• ChatGPT: An advanced AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, designed to generate human-like text and assist with a wide range of tasks.

• “Core Socialist Values”: A set of ideological principles promoted by the Communist Party of China, including prosperity, democracy, civility, and harmony, meant to guide individual and national behavior.

• “Danmei”: A genre of Chinese media featuring romantic or erotic relationships between male characters, popular among LGBTQ+ audiences.

• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): A data protection law in the European Union that regulates how organizations collect, store, and use personal information.

• LGBTQ+: An inclusive acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and other diverse sexual and gender identities.

• Legal “Rectification”: A process often employed in China to align laws, institutions, or behaviors with state ideologies or political goals.

• Mainland China: The geopolitical area under the jurisdiction of the People’s Republic of China, excluding Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.

• “One China” Principle: China’s diplomatic stance asserting that there is only one China, which includes Taiwan, and that the PRC is the only legitimate government.

• OpenAI: An AI research and deployment company based in the U.S., known for developing ChatGPT and committed to ensuring artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity.

• Open Source Innovation: The practice of developing technologies with freely accessible source code, allowing users to study, modify, and distribute software collaboratively.

• Peking University (PKU): A prestigious Chinese university located in Beijing, often involved in political and academic discourse, and a key institution in China’s higher education system.

• “Positive Culture”: A government-endorsed narrative in China promoting uplifting, politically aligned content while discouraging critical or dissenting expression.

• Self-Censorship: When individuals or organizations voluntarily withhold content or expression due to fear of punishment or political sensitivity.

• “Socialist Family Values”: Norms promoted by the Chinese state that emphasize traditional family roles, heterosexual marriage, and filial duty, often in contrast to LGBTQ+ identities.

• Taiwan’s Position: A politically sensitive topic concerning Taiwan’s self-governance versus China’s claim over the territory under the “One China” principle.

• The Civil Code of China: China’s comprehensive legal code governing private law, including contracts, property, marriage, and inheritance, effective from 2021.

• The Communist Party of China (CPC): The ruling political party in China, controlling the state and major institutions, and shaping national ideology and policy.

• “Three No” Policy: China’s informal stance on LGBTQ+ rights: no approval, no disapproval, no promotion——neither legalizing nor actively criminalizing LGBTQ+ identities.

• Tiananmen Square Protest: A pro-democracy protest in Beijing in 1989, violently suppressed by the government. It remains a heavily censored topic in China.

  
  

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Sources

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