Today, media coverage of domestic affairs is characterised not only by pluralism but also by bias and partiality reflecting strong ties between political actors and media outlets. Accordingly, the Iraqi media are often accused of fuelling conflict and deepening the ethno-sectarian divide in society. However, based on a qualitative frame analysis of Iraqi news bulletins, this study reveals that Iraqi media outlets provide contesting frames on even the most divisive issues.

Authors: Anja Wollenberg, Sarah El-Richani, Maral Jekta.