Indonesian Journal of International Relations
Vol 10 No 2 (2026): INDONESIAN JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

We Were Never Friends: The Nanjing Massacre and The Media Construction of The Sino-Japanese Diplomatic Stalemate

Maurits Bhoas Ering (Department of International Relations Padjadjaran University)



Article Info

Publish Date
24 Aug 2026

Abstract

This study aims to analyze how the BBC frames Sino-Japanese relations, focusing on the role of historical memory in the construction of bilateral tensions. This study is based on a constructivist perspective and uses Entman's framing model through qualitative framing analysis of BBC reporting. The analysis focuses on four elements of Entman's framing: problem definition, diagnose causes, make moral judgment, and treatment recommendations. The findings show that the BBC consistently frames history as the main source of tension, representing China as an actor that actively articulates historical memory, while Japan is portrayed as an actor bound by its past and cautious in its responses. This study concludes that media framing plays a role in shaping asymmetrical agency narratives, while also showing how the media contributes to the formation of political meaning and national identity in international relations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijir

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

IJIR is a scientific journal focuses on the issues of states relations both in the regional and international scope. Mostly on, but not limited to, Indonesia and the Southeast Asian region. IJIR is published by and served as the official journal of the International Relations National Association ...