Media Framing Of the Conflict in the Amhara Regional State: AMECO and Roha TV in Focus
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Date
2024-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the framing of the conflict in the AMHARA regional state by Amico and Roha TV, as reported during the selected period from April 28, 2023, to November 30, 2023. This timeframe was deliberately chosen as it encompasses the onset of the conflict, its escalation to a peak, and the subsequent declaration of a state of emergency. The impetus for conducting research titled 'Media Framing of the conflict in the Amhara Regional State: Amico and Roha TV in focus' stems from the escalating internal conflict in Ethiopia. Given that media can significantly impact conflicts either positively or negatively, understanding media framing is crucial. This research aims to examine their framing practices to determine whether they contribute to resolving the conflict or exacerbate it. The media outlets under scrutiny were specifically chosen for their consistent coverage of the Amharan conflict. The outlets in question include the government-funded Amico and the YouTube-based news channel Roha TV. To achieve the primary goals of the study, four research questions have been formulated, to examine how the chosen media characterizes the dispute between the Amhara regions, how to diagnose the cause, what the moral verdict is, and what solutions are recommended. The study employed qualitative methods and textual analysis to address the research questions. The findings indicated that the Amhara regional state conflict was framed differently by the selected media outlets. However, their proposed solutions for conflict resolution were identical, with both advocating for armed action as the means to resolve the regional conflict. This study could serve as a foundation for further research, and if the media seriously consider the findings, they could use them to enhance their work practices.