The foreigners on YouTube defending ChinaAFP, BEIJINGWith YouTube videos “debunking” allegations of human rights abuses and diatribes on Western “conspiracies” against China, an unlikely set of foreigners is loudly defending Beijing against international critics. Lee Barrett speaks on his YouTube channel, as seen on a computer screen in Beijing on Sept. 2. Their backgrounds are often in fields unrelated to current affairs or politics, while their videos blend scenes of everyday life with passionate commentaries defending China. His videos have featured tours sponsored by the government-run China Radio International, where he interviews other YouTubers about criticisms of China and explores rural development projects. It is difficult to quantify the influence of the YouTubers outside China, with many of their commenters claiming to be grateful Chinese.

Source: Taipei Times September 12, 2021 16:14 UTC