Media Representation of Climate Activists Entering the Political Arena: A Case Study on the Representation of Lena Schilling in Austrian News Media
2024 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (One Year)), 15 credits / 22,5 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
This thesis investigates the media representation of Lena Schilling, an Austrian climate activist and the top candidate for the Austrian Green Party in the 2024 European Parliament elections. Using thematic analysis, the study examines how Austrian online newspapers frame Schilling's candidacy, focusing on narratives, stereotypes, and biases, and compares these with online audience responses. Data from five prominent Austrian newspapers and their Instagram platforms (January 20, 2024, to March 3, 2024) reveal three key themes: the denial of Schilling's political legitimacy due to perceived inexperience and radical activism, her portrayal as a hero for climate activists, and her depiction as a reluctant ally to the Green Party. The findings highlight the complex interplay between media representation and public response, emphasizing young female activists' challenges in gaining political legitimacy. This study offers valuable insights for activists, policymakers, and scholars interested in media, politics, and environmental advocacy.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2024. , p. 61
Keywords [en]
Lena Schilling, media representation, climate activists, stereotypes, politics, intersectionality, green backlash, New Social Movement Theory
National Category
Media and Communication Studies Media and Communication Studies
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-64843OAI: oai:DiVA.org:hj-64843DiVA, id: diva2:1868741
Subject / course
HLK, Media and Communication Studies
Supervisors
Examiners
2024-06-202024-06-122025-02-17Bibliographically approved