Credible Information, Strategic Consolidation or Both? Authoritarian Aligned Narratives and Public Opinion

This study examines the influence of aligned narratives between authoritarian states, specifically China and Russia, on domestic public opinion within China. Recognizing the inherent credibility challenges faced by authoritarian regimes, the study theorizes that aligned narratives serve dual functions of persuasion and signaling, thereby possibly enhancing the persuasiveness of certain narratives and public support for strategic partnerships. The research adopts a survey experiment design in which Chinese participants are exposed to varying narratives from China, Russia, and their combined claims on U.S. biological weapon allegations. Through this design, the study seeks to test hypotheses related to the persuasive strength, and reciprocity signalling of aligned narratives. By focusing on domestic audiences, this research aims to contribute insights into the literature of authoritarian foreign propaganda, exploring their potential to enhance narrative persuasion strength toward the general public within authoritarian states. This study is also conducive to our understanding about the mechanisms of bolstering public support for authoritarian alliance building.