Abstract

This thesis examines the framing of Sudanese refugees in Egyptian media during the first year of the Sudanese conflict (April 2023–March 2024). Employing a content analysis framework, the research investigates content from three Egyptian newspapers—Al Ahram, Al Masry Al Youm, and Al Wafd—alongside tweets from the social media platform X. The study identifies recurring frames, themes, and narratives, highlighting differences between traditional media and social media platforms in their portrayal of Sudanese refugees. Key findings reveal that neutral tone dominate traditional media, focusing on factual reporting, followed by negative, then positive tones. Conversely, social media predominantly features negative narratives, such as social rejection, mass influx and economic strain, reflecting public fears and stereotypes. The most dominant frames found in online media were the mass influx, economic threat, and vulnerability frames. While unique frames on social media, including humanitarian advocacy and call for actions, demonstrate its potential for mobilization and raising awareness. Although social media allows the opinion of normal people to appear, yet concerns around its credibility remain a critical issue. Recommendations include fostering more balanced and inclusive media representation of refugees, emphasizing transparency, and addressing public concerns through informed coverage.

School

School of Global Affairs and Public Policy

Department

Center for Migration and Refugee Studies

Degree Name

MA in Migration & Refugee Studies

Graduation Date

Spring 5-31-2025

Submission Date

1-26-2025

First Advisor

Dr. Rasha Allam

Committee Member 1

Dr. Ibrahim Awad

Committee Member 2

Dr. Maysa Ayoub

Extent

91 p.

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval

Not necessary for this item

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