Media Subimperialisms and the Rise of Global South

This book defines media subimperialism through three key characteristics: resistance and collaboration with imperial media, regional dominance despite partial domination by imperial systems, and reliance on imperial media for technology and content. Here, “imperial” or “metropolitan” media refers to systems rooted in imperial centers. Together, these traits not only clarify the role of “southern players” in global media but also challenge the notion that they signal the end of media imperialism. Grounded in Marxist theories of imperialism and subimperialism, this work offers a novel perspective on the rise of media giants from the global South.

This book is a groundbreaking contribution to global media studies for two main reasons: it frames emerging media giants from the South as subimperial powers and, uniquely, examines multiple case studies (e.g., Brazil, South Africa, Turkey) collectively rather than individually. It highlights a phenomenon at the intersection of media and power.

This book’s scope is twofold: first, it conceptualizes media subimperialism in the context of globalization, global hegemony, and media imperialism; second, it examines a range of case studies to allow for comparative insights, with at least seven cases analyzed. As pioneering research, this book sets the stage for future studies and captivate media scholars and students worldwide.

Farooq Sulehria is Assistant Professor in the Department of Liberal Arts, Beaconhouse National University, Lahore. With a doctorate in Development Studies (SOAS University of London), he has MA in Global Media and Postnational Communication (SOAS University of London).