In March 2024, during the International Communication Association (ICA) Regional Conference in Warsaw, Prof. Anna Jupowicz-Ginalska presented a paper titled “Polish Borders: Media Polarization and the Portrayal of Refugee Crises at the Borders with Belarus (2021) and Ukraine (2022).” This presentation, grounded in the findings of the “Managing Newsroom Diversity” project, delved into how Polish media outlets have depicted recent refugee crises, highlighting the role of media polarization in shaping public perception.
Prof. Jupowicz-Ginalska’s presentation focused on the portrayal of two significant events:
- The 2021 Crisis at the Belarusian Border: This period saw an influx of migrants, primarily from the Middle East and Africa, attempting to enter Poland via Belarus. The situation was marked by intense media coverage, with narratives often influenced by political affiliations and editorial stances.
- The 2022 Ukrainian Refugee Influx: Following the escalation of conflict in Ukraine, a substantial number of Ukrainian refugees sought safety in Poland. Media representations during this time varied, reflecting differing perspectives on the crisis.
The study analyzed content from selected media outlets, examining how political leanings and editorial policies influenced the framing of these events. The findings suggest that media polarization significantly impacted public discourse, potentially affecting societal attitudes toward refugees and migration policies.
Implications for Media and Society
Understanding the media’s role in framing such crises is crucial, as it influences public opinion and policy-making. The research presented shed light on the necessity for balanced and nuanced reporting, especially in situations involving vulnerable populations and cirises.
For a more comprehensive understanding of this research, the full article is available in the Horyzonty Polityki journal: https://horyzontypolityki.ignatianum.edu.pl/HP/article/view/2547
Photo from the conference.
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