Perceptions and newspaper coverage of Syrian refugees in Turkey

Abstract

In this study we analysed the perceptions about Syrian refugees as reflected in the newspapers. A qualitative design based on content analysis was adopted in this research. The news on Syrian refugees appeared in Hurriyet, Yeni Safak and Cumhuriyet newspapers between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2014 have been analysed. These were classified on the basis of themes, styles, main concepts, and photographs used. Our findings show that, the political standing of the newspapers and their attitudes towards the Turkish government strongly affect the ways they shape the news about Syrian refugees.