Contextual Analysis of ‘Refugee’ in French Online Press from 2014 to 2024

Absztrakt

The term “refugee” has been at the centre of global and national debates, especially in the context of migration crises, policy changes, and media narratives. Particularly since 2015, news coverage has played a decisive role in shaping public problem definitions and contextualisation. In the French context, online news outlets have developed distinct discursive repertoires that construct refugees through humanitarian, political, security, and economic perspectives, often fluctuating with electoral cycles and crisis events. Examining the representation of refugees in the media provides, therefore, insights into how media shapes public understanding of this term and reflects broader societal attitudes, making it a timely and pressing subject.
This study focuses on the contextual analysis of how “refugee” is represented in the French online press, emphasising the evolution of language, framing, and sentiment over a decade. The longitudinal aspect (2014–2024) allows tracking changes in discourse over time and in response to key events. The media framing aspect highlights how different media outlets construct narratives, revealing potential biases or ideological leanings. The linguistic aspect explores how language shapes perceptions, influencing policy and public opinion. By combining these aspects, the study offers a holistic view of the term “refugee” in media discourse.
Academically, this research contributes to fields like media studies, migration studies, and discourse analysis. It bridges gaps in understanding how media narratives evolve in response to social and political contexts. Practically, the findings could inform policymakers, journalists, and advocacy groups about how media narratives impact public perception and policy-making around refugees. For the broader public, understanding media framing can promote critical media consumption and greater awareness of societal biases.