Media and migration – D2IMIG – Dialogue for Diversity, Inclusion, Migration and Improved Learning Opportunitier

DURATION

approx. 20 minutes

FORMAT

Interactive + text-based + additional resources

The goals of this module

Identify the main trends in mediatic speeches/ the narratives produced around migration in Europe and how it affects our perceptions on migrations

Distinguish between the different ways words about migration are used in the media & Be able to create counter narratives about migration and migrants

What is it about?

In this module, you will receive more information about how migration and migrants are portrayed in media and how this can influence our perception of migration. Further, you will receive an insight into how to communicate migration objectively as well as some recommendations on how to become and active, compassionate and competent news reader and audience.

Media (social media, newspapers, television, and even videos on digital platforms) can influence how we perceive migration and migrants arriving in our home countries. In the following exercise you are tasked with finding a more neutral or positive phrasing of sentences to showcase that certain aspects do not have to presented in a negative light, even though they often are shown as something “bad” happening.

Want to read more about the topic? There are various articles and studies, analysing different media portrayals:

Shades of ‘whiteness’: immigration and the role of British newspapers before the EU referendum

What’s missing from newspaper coverage of migration? The migrants…

Criminals, terrorists and freeloaders: how migrants are portrayed in the European media

Migrants and the media: what shapes the narratives on immigration in different countries

Portrayal of Immigrants in Danish Media—A Qualitative Content Analysis

Analysis of more positive and empathic examples of migration portrayal:

Media, Public Opinion and Migration Policies in Euro-mediterranean Countries: The Case of France

Research: How Europe’s Newspapers Reported The Migration Crisis

The portrayal in the Spanish press of migration caused by climate change: a moral framework analysis

What can I do as a reader? How to responsibly engage with migration stories?

These tips help you to become more critical, compassionate, and constructive as a media consumer, and avoid unknowingly amplifying harmful narratives.

Read Beyond the Headline

Headlines can be misleading or sensationalised for clicks. You should always read the full story before reacting or sharing.

Question the Language Used

Ask yourself what kind of words the article is using, e.g. is the article using words like “flood,” “invasion,” “illegals”? Could these words be framing migrants as threats rather than people? If so, take it as a sign to question the story’s objectivity.

Check the Facts

Does the article back up claims with reliable data or expert sources? Are numbers put into context, e.g. “10,000 migrants” compared to what population size? 10,000 seem a lot but not if there are 8 million migrants, for example. If something feels exaggerated or out of context, dig deeper.

Look for Human Stories

Are migrants being quoted? Are they being shown as real people with families, jobs, goals? If not, seek out media that includes migrant perspectives and lived experiences.

Pause Before You Share

Ask yourself whether you are sharing this because it’s true or just because it’s shocking? Avoid amplifying content that spreads fear, hate, or dehumanizes others, even if unintentionally.

Challenge Stereotypes in Your Circle

When you hear someone say “They’re stealing our jobs” or “There’s too many of them,” become proactive and ask: Where did you hear that? What evidence is there? Have you met anyone with that experience? You don’t have to “win” the argument but just create space for more thoughtful reflection among your peers.

Diversify Your News Sources

Read from a range of outlets, including international and independent ones. Look for media that specializes in human rights, migration, or global issues.

Support Ethical Journalism

Follow and share stories by journalists or outlets who interview migrants directly, use fair language, and provide context instead of fear and sensationalised content.

Ask Yourself: What’s Missing?

While reading, ask who is quoted? Who is absent? Does the story only focus on crime, border control, or “burden”? Seek stories that highlight integration, contribution, resilience, and diversity.

Be Open to Complexity

Migration is not just about borders. It’s about people, history, economics, policy, and human rights. Avoid “either/or” thinking (e.g., “good migrants vs. bad migrants”) and embrace nuance.

Go to overview

Next module

Module 5: Interculturality