Comparative Representation of Social Crises in the Television Networks of the Kurdistan Region and the Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

In the contemporary world, media, especially television, plays a key role in shaping public opinion and representing social crises. This study examines the representation of social crises in the television networks of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and the Islamic Republic of Iran, with the aim of conducting a comparative analysis of how these crises are covered and reflected in the media of both regions. The research methodology is descriptive-analytical, employing content analysis of programs and news reports from two major television networks in each region. The results indicate that in both regions, the coverage of social crises is influenced by specific political, social, and cultural factors, leading to significant differences in the representation of these crises. In the Islamic Republic of Iran, media outlets are more tightly controlled by the government, which results in information censorship and a one-sided representation of crises. In contrast, in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the media enjoys greater freedom due to political and social diversity and the impact of Kurdish policies; however, challenges such as limited access to reliable information and infrastructure issues persist. This study also explores the effects of these differences on the public's perception of crises and the way people interact with the media. The findings can assist media policymakers in both regions in improving the quality of crisis coverage and crisis media management.