International broadcasting is one of the  principal means of presenting  a country’s perspective, views and values to foreign publics and their leaders, and a fundamental  component of a  nation’s public  diplomacy. This study surveyed  the  international  broadcasting  operations of ten major broadcasting  nations ­ the  UK, US, France,  Germany, Netherlands, China,  Korea, Japan, Canada and  Qatar  (Al Jazeera)  –  to  examine the relationship  between public  diplomacy and  international broadcasting, identify major industry trends, and consider the implications for Australia.

Key findings:

• The international broadcasting industry has experienced a period of rapid expansion and transformation, with entrants like Al Jazeera securing strong footholds in regions of strategic significance.
• Technological developments are transforming international broadcasting, with serious ramifications for traditional media such as short-wave radio.
• The resilience of Australia’s international broadcasters has been severely tested by poorly coordinated and erratic support from government.