Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Caijing, Chinese Anti-Corruption Magazine, in Turmoil

Despite the Chinese government's attempts to retain and even increase its control over the dissemination of news and information, there is at least one magazine that apparently speaks out, having built its reputation by publishing reports on corruption.

A leading financial publication, Caijing has somehow managed to survive for years, despite official preference for sweeping corruption under the rug. But now, Financial Times reports (linked article requires subscription) that much of the staff has walked out and the magazine's future is in doubt.

Forbes asks whether the turmoil at Caijing is from government pressure, internal feuding, or the longtime editor's wish to start a new publication. Might even be a combination of those choices, Forbes notes.

We'll have to wait and see. An independent and crusading journalism voice in China is rare and should be supported. Until we learn what's going on, check out the English-language edition of Caijing's web site.

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