In this provocative book John Downing explores the many roles of the media within the fundamental political, economic and cultural changes that took place during the turbulence in Eastern Europe between 1980 and 1995. He examines the central elements underlying these changes: power, the state, societal change, the economy, institutionalized racism, ethnic insurgency, secrecy and surveillance.

Internationalizing Media Theory critically evaluates media theories in relation to political and economic transitions, and challenges political science approaches for their failure to address vital issues in media and communication. Using a comparative and international focus, Downing analyzes the changes in Russia, Poland and Hungary and explores key aspects of the media during this period.