Networks, Olympics Organizers Clash

Foreign media that paid top dollar to cover the Olympics are descending on Beijing – and bristle about rules and regulations. The journalists protest the limits on live coverage and delays in shipping technical equipment. “Any interference with news coverage will be at odds with promises made seven years ago when Beijing was awarded the games,” writes Stephen Wade for the Associated Press, reprinted in the Los Angeles Times. Chinese authorities request all complaints in writing, resulting in a mound of paperwork. To obtain the best shots and complete background stories, media teams must engage in thorough advance planning. Regardless of news on the ground, China is intent on orchestrating positive coverage, oblivious to old saying, "Any publicity is good publicity." The restrictions – designed to prohibit protests – could also prevent valuable media exposure for both athletes and China. – YaleGlobal