Chinese-linked outlets are pushing Cambodia's media toward an authoritarian model, and bolstering Hun Sen's grip on power. Critical coverage is increasingly drowned out by gushing pro-government tirades and pro-Beijing content as China extends its influence beyond business into Cambodia's press. Though far from Beijing's sophisticated control of information, Cambodia's media landscape is starting to echo China's, according to Reporters Without Borders, which defines the model as media used to promote government aims and development. A Western diplomat in Cambodia said government officials have in some cases openly praised the way Chinese media operate. The company will cooperate with Chinese state media outlets and air one programme called "National Security News", according to Chinese media reports.

Source: Bangkok Post June 03, 2018 02:03 UTC