Is international broadcasting necessary in the context of global media?
Public diplomacy has changed from a top-down approach to a more multi-lateral one. As Cull says in Hoof Beats, there is not just one player per country (the government) in the PD game anymore. Rather there are many and varied organizations and individuals. So what does that mean for international broadcasting? It means that nationally-produced television isn’t the only thing representing America abroad anymore. Through satellite television, the Internet and mobile technology, people experience America through so many more ways than just the state-sanctioned ones.
Because of that, there are some places that don’t rely on international broadcasting to get their news as they used to. Although I think there are definitely still places where traditional international broadcasting is still important, at least for now, I also think there are also places where that money could be better spent on a different type of international broadcasting. I really like Powers and Youmans’ ideas about creating spaces that are less about telling the news and more about creating a dialogue. By going to countries where there is no dialogue and creating one, the U.S. could both share information about American and most importantly, promote democratic ideals. Powers and Youmans talk about website examples, but I think it could also be used in the traditional television format. For instance, the shows featured could be more of talk shows and debates instead of news shows. And just like American news has begun to do, they could dedicate times and shows to sharing tweets and social media updates, especially in dangerous areas, so that people can know what’s going on around the country. One potential flaw in this idea is that aspects of it may not work in very repressive countries. You have to remember to pay attention to culture. Few people in-country are going to want to contribute if it puts their life in danger. But in countries that developing, but not necessarily politically repressive, this could be a great way to share the American message and to promote democracy.
JELS of our Global Politicking Prowess 