The use of discourse in the context of authoritarian diffusion

This study examines discourse in the broader context of authoritarian diffusion, focusing on how state-sponsored media and diplomatic platforms construct narratives that legitimise illiberal regimes, practices, and norms. Rather than presenting discourse as a direct causal mechanism, the research explores how discursive strategies contribute to the enabling conditions previously identified in theories of authoritarian diffusion, and theories that examined concepts such as autocracy promotion, and autocracy support, particularly the reinforcement of regime legitimacy and the contestation of liberal democratic norms. The central argument is that discourse, whether in media narratives or diplomatic rhetoric, creates the communicative environment in which authoritarian governance becomes desirable and legitimate. It helps reframe key global concepts such as sovereignty, democracy, and human rights in ways that align with authoritarian interests, especially in regions where liberal democratic narratives appear weakened or contested. This study focuses on two discursive arenas: Chinese state media (CGTN Arabic) and China’s institutional rhetoric at the United Nations Security Council. While existing scholarship reviewed emphasises material tools such as economic aid, regime alliances, and partnerships, this thesis foregrounds discourse as a complementary and underexplored tool. Through critical discourse analysis of 91 CGTN Arabic articles published in the first fifteen days of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, between 24th February and 10th March 2022, alongside document analysis of China's statements at the UNSC in relation to Syria through UNSC resolutions between October 2011 and May 2014, the research shows how China and its allies are discursively framed as rational, peace-seeking, and development-oriented, positioned against a destabilising and fragmented West. Narratives presented align with processes that scholars have described as norm contestation and legitimation. For instance, sovereignty is framed not as accountability to international norms but as territorial integrity and resistance to external interference. Democracy is redefined as people-centered, prioritising stability, service provision, and national development over accountability and transparency. Human rights are interpreted through a developmental lens, focusing on poverty alleviation and social welfare rather than civil and political liberties. Rather than rejecting liberal values outright, these discursive strategies reshape their meaning to better fit authoritarian governance models and their interests. In doing so, CGTN Arabic and China’s institutional discourse symbolically reinforce the legitimacy of authoritarian regimes, especially during times of international crisis such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine or the war in Syria. This thesis contributes to authoritarian diffusion theory by highlighting how discourse helps construct a discursive environment shown to support authoritarian resilience and cross-border legitimation.