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

13th Global Video Media Forum: Amplifying Voices

The Global Video Media Forum (VMF) kicked off in Xi'an, China's Shaanxi Province, on November 6, 2025. This influential gathering brought together over 300 participants including government officials, media leaders, and representatives from 40 different countries and regions. Focused on amplifying the voice of the Global South, the forum serves as a platform for emerging voices in global governance, notably underscoring the significance of media collaboration.

Initiating a New Era of Media Cooperation

The event marked the inauguration of the Global South Media Partners Mechanism, a newly established platform aimed at fostering collaboration between media outlets from the Global South. This initiative is driven by the intent to share content, enhance professional training, and engage in joint productions, all while promoting equal representation in global discussions about media.

The founding principles of this mechanism revolve around creating an environment for equal consultation and collective development. With participation from 528 media organizations across 114 countries, this partnership seeks to uplift the Global South's discourse power on the international stage.

During the forum, notable leaders such as Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake extended their best wishes, recognizing the importance of this cooperative effort.

Keynote Insights and Global Perspectives

Notable figures, including Zhao Yide, Secretary of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, highlighted the intention of Shaanxi Province to strengthen ties with global media institutions. He reaffirmed the necessity for deeper exchanges to enhance the media landscape.

Shen Haixiong, President of the China Media Group, emphasized the pressing needs of the Global South in light of contemporary challenges. He asserted that the establishment of the Global South Media Partners Mechanism is critical for addressing global governance responsibilities, particularly in times of change.

The launch of this mechanism is celebrated as a step toward promoting quality journalism, embracing technological advancements, and crafting collaborative channels for dialogue. Shen expressed confidence in the collective effort to drive change for a more equitable global media system.

A Platform for Diverse Voices

The forum also acted as a space for an exchange of ideas on media responsibility in global governance. Guests shared reflections on creating a more equitable global communication order and the importance of mutual learning among diverse cultures.

Omar Razzaz, former Prime Minister of Jordan, emphasized the necessity of unity among Global South nations. He viewed the Global South Media Partnership Mechanism as a vital step in enhancing the collective voice on international matters. Similarly, Patrick Muyaya, Minister of Information in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, stressed the importance of empowering Global South media to control their narratives.

Nguyen Thanh Lam, President of Vietnam Television, reinforced the sentiment that deeper media collaboration could lead to innovative storytelling that resonates globally. Kenyan media leaders echoed this enthusiasm, expressing a strong desire to represent African narratives authentically.

Significant Announcements and Future Directions

Significant outcomes spearheaded during the forum included the introduction of the Global South Media Training Center aimed at cultivating talent and promoting ethical journalism. In addition, CGTN launched three new channels on streaming platforms, enhancing access to diverse programming worldwide.

Also revealed was a research report titled "Global South's View of the World," indicating that major concerns for these nations include poverty and food security, with a major desire for reform in global governance practices.

Conclusion

The importance of the 13th Global Video Media Forum extends beyond its immediate goals; it represents a collective ambition to reshape perceptions, share stories, and effectively answer the pressing demands of the Global South. The collaborative spirit fostered through initiatives like the Global South Media Partners Mechanism has the potential to enhance inclusivity and representation in the global media landscape, paving the way for a more just international narrative. As the world continues to navigate complexities, forums like this serve as beacons of hope for aggrieved voices long awaiting acknowledgment on the global stage.

The forum concluded with a renewed commitment to empower Global South media and audiences alike—one step closer to a balanced and fair media system, representative of all corners of the world.