Chinese media in Europe: ethnic communities, migration and policy

The history of Chinese immigration in Europe dates back to the sixteenth century. The first Chinese newspapers were born there three centuries later. This ethnic media was created to seek solutions for China which was troubled at that time. Its focus has been changed to the local Chinese immigrants' life progressively for over a century. However, the Chinese government still somehow contacts with the Chinese communities and the ethnic media in Europe. So this thesis aims to study and reveal the current relationship among China's policy, Chinese migrants and the Chinese language media in Europe.

Nowadays, in the context of globalization, the information and communication technologies enables global broadcast for all kinds of Chinese media. But despite this variety of information sources, many Chinese immigrants in Europe maintain a close and special relationship with the ethnic media. Meanwhile, the Chinese government always intends to maintain a close relation with Chinese migrants around the world and spread the Chinese culture through these communities, especially through ethnic media. By analyzing the development of China's policy and the interactions between the Chinese authorities and Chinese media in Europe, this thesis observes a special connection with caution. Then, through a content analysis of media and a survey of Chinese immigrants conducted in seven European countries, this research reveals that the Chinese overseas media fulfils the functions of a conciliator and a spokesperson within the community.