Polish borders: media polarization and the representation of the refugee crises at the borders with Belarus (2021) and Ukraine (2022)

Abstract

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: This paper examines how specific media outlets (Polityka, Sieci) have portrayed the crises on Poland’s borders with Belarus and Ukraine. It focuses on refugees during the period of border crossings by capturing reactions, emotions, and decisions highlighted in the media during that period. Utilizing media polarization theory, the authors analyse similarities and differences in selected media outlets’ coverage of the crises. THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The following research questions were asked: What is the media portrayal of the refugees on the Belarus and the Ukrainian borders? Does the structural level of MP (media polarization) impact the behavioural level? The authors conducted qualitative media content analysis, following Pisarek’s (1983) research process and Mayring’s (2014) Inductive Category. THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The theory of media polarization is presented, followed by an analysis of the literature examining this phenomenon in the context of the refugee crises at Poland’s borders with Belarus and Poland. Qualitative content analysis of over 100 articles published in two strategically selected structurally polarized weeklies was carried out using the nVIVO software. RESEARCH RESULTS: The structural level of media polarization is reflected in the behavioural one. This study reveals that the main thematic focus is the refugees at the Belarusian border, who are described via political, social, and religious themes. The crisis at the Ukrainian border also exhibits polarizing elements, primarily centring on evaluating or criticizing the authorities and addressing or ignoring uncomfortable and problematic issues that emerge in connection to these refugees CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATION: This study constitutes a significant contribution to the theory of media polarization, addressing it also in relation to issues of diversity, tolerance, inclusivity, and humanitarianism.