Review/Reflection of the book "Media Politics in China: Improvising Power under Authoritarianism" by Maria Repnikova"

The book "Media Politics in China: Improvising Power under Authoritarianism" by Maria Repnikova, offers a compelling exploration of China's evolving media landscape within the context of its authoritarian regime. The author Repnikova's insightful analysis reveals the complex interplay between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the media, shedding light on how the CCP has adapted to the digital age while maintaining its grip on power. Chapter 3 of the book sheds light on the intricate relationship between China's critical journalists and the party-state, particularly regarding the practice of media oversight or “yulun jiandu” (pg. 51). After critical reading of the chapter, I noted that central authorities and critical journalists share common goals when it comes to media oversight, despite their differing positions. 

Firstly, the major argument highlighted in the chapter is the transformation of the Chinese media landscape, especially during the reform period. The economic reform of the media sector, technological advancements, and Westernization trends in journalism education all contributed to the emergence of critical journalism. As a result of the economic shift toward privatization and diversification of media outlets, investigative and in-depth reporting was allowed. Consequently, the transformation created a competitive environment where media organizations needed to differentiate themselves through critical coverage. 

Secondly, the chapter discusses how “yulun jiandu” has been framed as part of the party-state's accountability mechanisms and a way to guide public opinion (pg. 52). This framing allows for ambiguity, enabling fluid policy-making in media oversight. In response, journalists, navigate this ambiguity creatively, positioning themselves as change-makers within the system. They concentrate on local-level issues while using them to highlight systemic problems at both the local and central levels. 

In conclusion, chapter offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between the party-state and critical journalists in China. The text sheds light how both actors converge on the goal of improving governance within the system, with journalists adopting a role of cautious, yet creative, policy entrepreneurs within the boundaries set by the party-state's guarded improvisation. This chapter offers a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and motivations underlying media oversight in China's evolving media landscape.  

Reference 

Repnikova, M. (2017). Media politics in China: Improvising Power under authoritarianism. Cambridge University Press.