Perceptional transformation towards China in the Russian media in 21st century

Abstract

The article covers recent relationship of modern world’s two great powers – Russia and China, with main focus on identifying causes and goals behind positive reflection of China in the Russian media, which is becoming a trend during last couple years.

As it is known, the media has a great influence on the formation of public awareness, stereotypes, attitudes, therefore, the control of media space, to some extent, also means control of public opinion. Less democratic the country is, more opportunities for such kind of control it has. In such countries, the tightening of control over the media can be caused by many factors - political, economic, cultural, and so on.

Modern Russia has put herself in a difficult position in many directions. The sanctions initiated by the West are pushing the Russian government towards the East, particularly China. The connection between Moscow and Beijing over the past decade has been unprecedentedly close, which needs to be justified by a special campaign in a country like Russia, where the attitude of the population and political elites towards China is traditionally cautious and negative. Chinese culture, language, economic success, political, etc. arrangement are being intensively promoted in the Russian media to justify the Eastern path. Even special information applications have been created.

 By analyzing political and economic relationship of those countries in the article it is obvious that in contrast to the disagreement with the West, Russia is becoming more dependent on China. Accordingly, it is enhancing the positive role of China in the Russian media.