November 26, 2023 at 10:35PM
China is courting foreign influencers to promote its agenda in exchange for access to its vast market, according to a report by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI). The think tank’s research reveals that influencers with large followings on Chinese social media have recognized the financial benefits of appealing to nationalistic sentiments. China’s aim is to cultivate a group of foreign voices who can advocate for the country both domestically and internationally. This strategy poses challenges in distinguishing between genuine content and propaganda, threatening the integrity of public discourse. ASPI recommends labeling Beijing-backed influencers and investing in research to counter these efforts.
According to the meeting notes, the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) has published a policy brief titled “Singing from the CCP’s songsheet,” which highlights China’s strategy of offering access to its market to foreign influencers in exchange for content that promotes Beijing’s desired narratives. The brief reveals that many foreign influencers have gained popularity and increased revenue by appealing to Chinese audiences’ sense of nationalism. The report also mentions China’s efforts to cultivate a group of foreign influencers who can speak for the country at home and abroad. The policy brief warns that the growing use of foreign influencers will make it difficult to distinguish between genuine content and propaganda, challenging the ability to counter disinformation and protect the integrity of public discourse. ASPI recommends that social media platforms label Beijing-backed influencers and share information about them, while also educating students about the risks they may face when studying abroad. The think tank suggests increased support and funding for research in areas such as disinformation, information operations, and propaganda.