Global Times
Chinese state tabloid known for nationalistic and confrontational coverage.
The newspaper has been the source of various incidents, including fabrications, conspiracy theories, and disinformation, and is part of a broader set of Chinese state media outlets that constitute the Chinese government's propaganda apparatus.
- field
- State media and propaganda
- nationality
- Chinese
- known_for
- Nationalistic commentary, 'wolf warrior' communication strategy, and spreading disinformation
- founded
- 1993 (Chinese-language weekly); English version launched 20 April 2009
- editor_in_chief
- Hu Xijin (until December 2021)
- daily_circulation
- Over 2 million copies (as of at least 2024)
Lore & Background
By 2016, the English edition employed approximately 20 foreign experts for non-political stories.
Reader's Guide
The Global Times is significant as a prominent instrument of Chinese state propaganda, known for its nationalistic and often confrontational editorial stance. Its English edition initially took a less nationalistic tone but later aligned with the Chinese version. The newspaper has been described as 'China's Fox News' for its propaganda and monetization of nationalism. It has been involved in numerous incidents, including fabricating quotes, spreading COVID-19 disinformation, and conducting astroturfing campaigns. While not generally considered representative of the Chinese government's official positions, it is viewed as channeling the views of hardline factions. Its 'wolf warrior' communication strategy, epitomized by Hu Xijin, has sparked international controversy and contributed to China's strained international image.
Did You Know?
- The Global Times is a daily tabloid under the auspices of the Chinese Communist Party's flagship newspaper, the People's Daily.
- Editor-in-chief Hu Xijin expected a loss of 20 million yuan in the English edition's first year.
- In 2019, the Global Times won a three-year contract with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to monitor overseas social media and provide briefings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Global Times?
The Global Times is a Chinese state-affiliated daily tabloid that operates under the umbrella of the People's Daily, the CCP's flagship newspaper. It specializes in covering international affairs through a strongly nationalistic and confrontational lens.
When was the Global Times founded, and when did it launch its English edition?
It started as a Chinese-language weekly back in 1993. The English-language version hit the market on 20 April 2009, introduced as part of a government initiative to push back against Western media narratives overseas.
Who led the Global Times for most of its modern era?
Hu Xijin served as editor-in-chief until stepping down in December 2021. During his tenure the paper became tightly associated with an aggressive, combative style of foreign-policy commentary often labeled 'wolf warrior' rhetoric.
Why is the Global Times so controversial among media-watchers and readers?
The outlet has repeatedly drawn scrutiny for publishing fabricated stories, promoting conspiracy theories, and running disinformation pieces. It is widely treated as a central instrument of Chinese state propaganda and diplomatic posturing.
How big is the Global Times' circulation?
The paper reports a daily print run exceeding two million copies, a figure still cited as of at least 2024. That scale makes it one of the most widely distributed state tabloids in the country.
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