The portrayal of Sino-African relations in the Western Media: Who is actually neo-colonializing Africa?

Abstract

The aim of this article is to contribute in a reflexive way to the hot debate about China and Africa relations. The criticisms that China has received for her activities in Africa usually come from western countries that have their own interests in the area. Specifically, as it will be seen, countries like France and the United States have developed a deep military, political, economic and cultural influence in Africa that makes them the actual neo-colonial powers in the region. Paradoxically, the western media plays an important role in emphasizing some negative news related to China's activities in Africa, accusing it to have neo-colonialist behaviours; while they strategically cover and underreport activities from their own countries in the continent. Actually this media strategy can turn to be really effective considering the emphasis and efforts that China makes in improving its own international image.