As NPR's David Folkenflik reports, the Chinese and the International Olympic Committee had promised more openness for the games.

NPR: China Curbs Visiting Media's Internet Access

Microsoft ( MSFT - news - people ), which so rarely plays David, recently complained that rampant software piracy in China wasn't just for Chinese individuals earning a few thousand dollars a year.

FORBES: Off Shore

The BBC's David Willey in Rome says it is the first time the Pope has asked for blessings for the Chinese leadership in his Christmas message.

BBC: Pope Benedict in Christmas plea for Syria solution

International reporting: David Barboza of The New York Times for his striking exposure of corruption at high levels of the Chinese government, including billions in secret wealth owned by relatives of the prime minister, well documented work published in the face of heavy pressure from the Chinese officials.

WSJ: 2013 Pulitzer winners in journalism and arts