Global Media Forum in China Promotes Southern Voices and Collaboration
The 12th World Video Media Forum (VMF) commenced on December 8, 2024, in the historic city of Quanzhou, Fujian Province, China. This significant event aims to foster collaboration and amplify the voices of the Global South through a series of initiatives. Approximately 200 representatives from 87 media organizations hailing from over 60 countries participated in this two-day event.
The forum, organized by the CCTV Video News Agency (CCTV+), featured the theme 'Intelligence Without Borders: The Role of Media in Communication and Cultural Exchange'. This theme underscores the increasing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in media and its capacity to enhance global communication.
During the opening ceremony, Shen Haixiong, the president of China Media Group (CMG), along with other dignitaries, announced the Global South Media Cooperation Initiative. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving several prominent organizations, including the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union, the Arab States Broadcasting Union, the African Union of Broadcasting, and the Latin American Information Alliance. The primary objective of this initiative is to construct a robust narrative framework for the Global South and elevate the media voices from these regions on the world stage.
One of the highlights of the initiative is to promote cultural exchanges and share best practices among countries in the Global South, thereby encouraging mutual learning. By ensuring that the media responsibly represent the interests and perspectives of the Global South, the initiative aims to ensure that these voices gain the recognition they deserve.
The forum also showcased several cultural projects, most notably a promotional video for the 'Spring Festival Gala 2025'. This gala, regarded as one of the most-watched television programs globally, provides a unique platform for Chinese culture and arts, having been a staple since 1983. Additionally, four high-quality dramas and documentaries were presented, offering insights into the daily lives of the Chinese people and shedding light on the nation's rich cultural history, environmental conservation efforts, and advancements in space exploration.
In line with its future roles, the CMG announced plans to expand its media outreach initiatives throughout 2025, focusing on Central Asia, Europe, and the Americas. This initiative, titled 'China Close Up', invites both Chinese and international journalists and influencers to explore and document the dynamic cultural and socio-economic developments within China.
Moreover, as an effort to reinforce international communication, the CMG kicked off the 'International Communication Season' in Quanzhou, a city historically associated with the Maritime Silk Road. This initiative weaves contemporary narratives around historical trade routes, enhancing China’s global communication framework.
Attendees of the forum had the opportunity to engage with advanced applications of 3D audio technology through the 'Jingcai Voice' experiential hall, further demonstrating how technology can enhance media capabilities.
The sessions throughout the forum included discussions on how new technology empowers media and the vital role of cultural exchange in international communication. Panels delved into AI applications and governance within the media landscape, emphasizing innovative platform development for more effective communication.
As discussions continue, the VMF serves as a vital platform for building cultural bridges and promoting narrative agency for the Global South on a global stage. By connecting diverse media stakeholders and fostering an environment of cooperation, the forum aims to pave the way towards a more inclusive and globally engaged media landscape for all participants.