Media globalization, local resistance and policy action

What is it about?

In this article, we discuss the dialectic between the forces of hegemonic globalization and local resistance by critically examining the content of reality television series (featuring two American 'entrepreneurs') about illegal gold mining and its resultant environmental havoc in the West African country, Ghana. Borrowing the concept of interlocalization, we argue that the show, although a hegemonic global form, amplifies a serious development challenge, sparking a debate, leading to mobilization, policy actions, and potential for social change and development. We also examine the role of local television co-producers, social media, and activists in the interlocalization process.

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Why is it important?

This research builds on Szalvai (2008) and Szalvai and Boyd- Barrett’s (in press) interlocalization concept (the horizontal aspect of globalization)— as a possible third outcome of the nexus between globalized media and local realities. It demonstrates how local actors such television co-producers, activists, and ordinary citizens can discursively harness an offensive and exploitative global media form (such as a reality TV program that is based on natural resource exploitation by Westerners) to shed light on a bigger policy concern— illegal gold mining.