Media Power and its Control in Contemporary China: The Digital Regulatory Regime, National Identity, and Global Communication

This book explores the policy practices within China's broadcasting industry, examining the gap between contemporary policy and implementation, and the role of national broadcasters in mediating public discourse, reimagining national identity, and nation branding. Cases investigated include CCTV Documentary, CGTN, SMG, and co-productions with international media firms.

Format: Hardback
Length: 305 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the intricate world of policy practices within China's broadcasting industry, employing an ethnographic approach to explore the gap between contemporary policy regimes and their implementation in national broadcasters and streaming services. By examining the dynamic interplay between broadcasters, political bodies, producers, and audiences, Zhu sheds light on the contemporary role of Chinese national broadcasters in mediating public discourse, shaping collective reimaginings of China's national identity, and embracing the newly-found policy initiative of leveraging state media as a tool for nation branding. Through in-depth investigations of key cases such as China Central Television (CCTV) Documentary, China Global Television Network (CGTN), and the Shanghai Media Group (SMG), as well as collaborative co-productions with international media firms like the BBC, Discovery, and the Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK), this book offers a rich tapestry of insights that will captivate scholars of Chinese politics, media studies, and sociology alike.

Introduction:
In recent years, China's broadcasting industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving societal needs, and the ever-increasing influence of the state. As a result, policy practices within this sector have become increasingly important in shaping the country's media landscape and influencing public opinion. This book aims to explore the complex interplay between policy, broadcasting, and society in China, shedding light on the ways in which national broadcasters and streaming services navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the contemporary policy regime.

The Gap between Policy and Implementation:
One of the central themes of this book is the gap between the contemporary policy regime and its implementation in national broadcasters and streaming services. The policy regime in China is characterized by a combination of regulatory measures, market-oriented incentives, and government intervention, aimed at promoting the development of a healthy and competitive broadcasting industry. However, the reality on the ground often differs from these intentions. National broadcasters and streaming services face numerous challenges in implementing policy directives, including limited resources, bureaucratic red tape, and resistance from stakeholders who may oppose certain policies.

The Role of Broadcasters:
Broadcasters play a crucial role in mediating public discourse and shaping collective reimaginings of China's national identity. They are responsible for selecting and presenting content that reflects the values and interests of the state, as well as engaging with audiences to promote understanding and tolerance. However, the increasing commercialization of the broadcasting industry has led to concerns about the loss of editorial independence and the prioritization of profit over public interest. Broadcasters must navigate a fine line between adhering to policy directives and maintaining their credibility and legitimacy with audiences.

Political Bodies and Audiences:
Political bodies, including the government and regulatory agencies, also play a significant role in shaping policy practices within the broadcasting industry. They set the policy framework, establish regulations, and provide funding for broadcasters. At the same time, audiences are increasingly demanding more diverse and inclusive content, which challenges broadcasters to balance their commercial interests with the need to cater to diverse audiences.

Collaborative Co-Productions:
Collaborative co-productions between Chinese broadcasters and international media firms are another interesting aspect of this book. These partnerships allow broadcasters to access global content, expand their audience, and promote China's soft power. However, they also raise questions about cultural appropriation, intellectual property rights, and the influence of foreign media on Chinese society. Broadcasters must navigate these complex dynamics to ensure that collaborative co-productions are beneficial for both parties.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of policy practices within China's broadcasting industry. By examining the gap between policy and implementation, the role of broadcasters, political bodies, producers, and audiences, and the dynamics of collaborative co-productions, it provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between policy, broadcasting, and society in China. This book will interest scholars of Chinese politics, media studies, and sociology, as well as anyone interested in understanding the evolving media landscape in China.

Weight: 549g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811969164
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022