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Refugees in the news: Comparing Belgian and Swedish newspaper coverage of the European refugee situation during summer 2015

Journal Contribution - Journal Article

This comparative content analysis of Belgian and Swedish newspaper
coverage of the ‘refugee situation’ in 2015 (N=898) revolves around responsibility
indicators, news actor characteristics, and thematic emphasis. As they are a
potential influential factor in the public-opinion formation process, the studying
of media portrayals is an essential first step in investigating the dynamic interplay
between media discourse and societal reactions. Belgium and Sweden differ with
respect to migration policy, integration indicators, and the number of incoming
refugees. They also differ in terms of journalistic cultural values. As a result, they
make for an excellent case study of intercultural differences and similarities in
how refugees are reported on. Our analysis made clear that Belgian news coverage
shows regional diversity, with Francophone Belgian journalists showing
more tolerance towards migrants and thus tending to be more in line with their
Swedish counterparts. Still, refugees are seldom allowed to speak for themselves.
This warrants attention and action by news professionals.
Journal: Communications: The European Journal of Communication Research
ISSN: 0341-2059
Issue: 3
Volume: 43
Pages: 301-323
Publication year:2018
Keywords:migrants, refugees, Content analysis, BELGIUM, Sweden
Authors:Regional
Accessibility:Open