The Conflict Frame and Becoming Neutral: An Analysis Based on 2012-2016 BBC Website Report of China-Africa Relations

　　Li Xinfeng Li Yujie

　　Abstract：

　　This paper analyzes coverage of China-Africa relations on the BBC website from 2012 to 2016. It identifies four common types of news frames. Among these frames, the conflict frame is particularly prominent. It is revealed in the reporting perspectives on human rights, energy and resources, Chinese commodities, environment and wild animals, and labor conflicts. The frame of economic consequences is also wildly employed in the BBC 's coverage of the deepening ties of China-Africa economic cooperation. This is shown in the perspectives of trade cooperation, China 's loan and aid, as well as infrastructure construction. To utilize the priming effects of news frames, the BBC selectively reported negative facts and painted a conflicting picture of China-Africa relations, affecting the audience's perception. In view of China's growing influence in Africa, however, the BBC adjusted its reporting inclination and gradually became neutral since 2008, demonstrating not only the complex feeling of the West, but also a change of reporting strategy based on their national interest.