#China #Global South #Xi'an #Media Forum

13th Global Video Media Forum: Emphasizing Global South Representation

The vibrant city of Xi'an, in Shaanxi Province, China, recently played host to the 13th Global Video Media Forum (VMF), an event of significant importance that aimed to amplify the voices of the Global South. This two-day forum, running from November 5 to 6, gathered an impressive assembly of over 300 guests, including government officials, media leaders, and representatives from various nations, all united in their purpose to enhance global media governance and foster cooperative relations.

A Focus on Media’s Role in Global Governance

This year’s theme, “Building Consensus for Shared Benefits: Media's Role in Global Governance,” underscored the pivotal role of media in shaping narratives that resonate with the experiences and aspirations of the Global South. Notably, the event was co-sponsored by the CCTV Video News Agency, the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China’s Xi'an Municipal Committee, and the China Media Group, showcasing a robust collaboration aimed at constructive dialogue and mutual growth.

A groundbreaking initiative was launched during the forum: the Global South Media Partners Mechanism. This platform aims to facilitate partnerships among media organizations in the Global South, fostering content sharing, professional training, and co-production opportunities. With participation from 528 media organizations across 114 countries, this mechanism is set to redefine how media operates within and beyond the Global South.

Notable Attendees and Their Perspectives

Prominent figures, including presidents and leaders from various nations, expressed their congratulations and support for this initiative. In his keynote address, Zhao Yide, Secretary of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the CPC, emphasized the potential for increased cooperation among media entities to promote shared growth. He highlighted the importance of leveraging these platforms to boost cultural exchange and understanding across borders.

Shen Haixiong, President of the China Media Group, also addressed the gathering, advocating for the urgent need to acknowledge the challenges faced by Global South countries. He noted that media must adapt and innovate in tandem with technological advancements while maintaining professionalism and dedication to truth.

Exploring Global Challenges and Narratives

The forum allowed participants to engage in fruitful discussions about various relevant topics, including the media’s responsibility in combating global inequalities and how to foster a more equitable communication framework. Former Prime Minister of Jordan, Omar Razzaz, highlighted the necessity for unity among Global South nations to tackle shared challenges effectively while mentioning how the new mechanism can enhance their collective narrative power.

Patrick Muyaya, Minister of Information and Media for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, asserted that media in the Global South should transition from passive observers of global stories to active storytellers, advocating for their narratives.

In addition to insightful speeches, the forum presented significant outcomes aimed at fostering media cooperation, such as the Global South Media Training Center, designed to cultivate talent and uphold journalistic standards among member states.

Innovations and Collaborative Efforts

At the forum, CCTV+ launched three new specialized channels across Free Advert-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) platforms, offering programming to cater to diverse global audiences. This initiative is expected to reach nearly 200 million viewers and marks an important step in extending the Global South’s footprint in global media landscapes.

Furthermore, the event unveiled results from an extensive survey titled “Global South's View of the World,” which reported that issues of poverty, food security, and safety are top priorities for these nations, emphasizing the need for reforms in global governance systems.

The forum also introduced the “Global South Stories” initiative, inviting creators from around the world to share their unique insights, promoting cultural exchange and shared experiences.

Towards an Inclusive Future in Media

As Xi'an introduced A-Yong, its AI digital persona designed to bridge language barriers and promote local culture on a global stage, the forum highlighted the inherent value of technology in enhancing communication. Established in 2011, the VMF has evolved into a crucial gathering for global media stakeholders, aiming to facilitate dialogue, share knowledge, and strategize for a more balanced and inclusive media ecosystem.

In conclusion, the 13th Global Video Media Forum was not merely an event; it was a clarion call for media organizations from the Global South to unite their voices, leveraging collaboration and innovation. The ripple effects of this forum are expected to pave the way for more integrated and robust media representations in the global arena, fostering an environment where all voices can be heard and valued equally.