Media policy in Сhina in the era of convergence: ideological dimensions and instruments of influence

Abstract

The media market in China is undergoing continuous transformation, with decisive influence exerted by media elites representing the Communist government. Emphasis is placed on modernizing national governance capacity and systematically integrating new technologies into media production and control, shaping the distinctive “Chinese style” of media policy implementation. This study explores the phenomenon of media convergence and the development of We-media in China as a duality between the illusion of “Chinese democracy” and strict state control over media and citizens. These dynamics underscore the relevance of the research. The article aims to identify key trends in the evolution of Chinese media, their impact on audiences, and changes in media law and editorial policy. It outlines the management features and development concepts within Chinese media management, examines the We-media phenomenon, and defines priority directions in editorial policy development and the influence of media convergence. The vision of Chinese media elites is analyzed, highlighting convergence as a tool of manipulation and propaganda. The methodological framework is based on a comprehensive approach, combining descriptive methods, analysis, and synthesis to present the theoretical and methodological foundation. An interdisciplinary research method is applied to examine the specific characteristics of media elites and their communicative strategies. The central thesis of the study posits that China’s media governance policy gradually employs media convergence as a high-tech driving force to enhance control over media and as an effective instrument for influencing civil society. Media convergence is a vital component of China’s governance philosophy. A comprehensive analysis of media evolution and the trajectories of convergence expansion reveals the patterns of media governance in China, the state of public media development, and modes of citizen self-expression. Further research into the evolution of Chinese media, their global expansion, and their role as a tool of state control remains essential.