The Global Story
The dangers of China’s cyber-nationalism
Oct 28, 2024
Fan Wang, a BBC digital journalist based in Singapore, and Kerry Allen, a BBC News China Media Analyst, share insights on the alarming rise of cyber-nationalism in China. They discuss how this trend has escalated violence against foreigners, citing a tragic stabbing incident that heightened tensions with Japan. The conversation explores the historical context of Sino-Japanese relations and the implications of aggressive nationalism fueled by social media and ongoing international conflicts, revealing a concerning shift in public sentiment.
23:38
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Quick takeaways
- The violent incident involving a Japanese schoolboy highlights the rising xenophobia in China fueled by historical grievances and nationalistic sentiments.
- Chinese cyber-nationalism, manifested through social media campaigns, reflects deeper economic frustrations and poses risks for China's international relations and social stability.
Deep dives
Reactions to Tragic Incidents
The fatal stabbing of a 10-year-old Japanese boy in Shenzhen, China, sparked significant outrage and international tensions between Japan and China. Following the incident, the Japanese government swiftly condemned the act, linking it to a rise in xenophobia attributed to anti-Japanese sentiment on Chinese social media. In contrast, the Chinese response downplayed the incident, labeling it as an isolated case while emphasizing their commitment to protecting foreigners. This dual reaction reflects the sensitive historical context and current geopolitical tensions that complicate relations between the two nations.
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