Representation of Minorities in the Media in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey

The current international system of nation-states, established following World War Two, has created a solid ground for ethnically-framed conflicts. The institutions of the nation-states have played a critical role in making ethnicity one of the politically salient identities. Among others, these institutions are mandatory education, national armies, and the media. In this paper, we examine the role of one of these institutions – the media, with regards to shaping intergroup relations in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkey, and more specifically the representation of ethnic minorities and vulnerable groups in the media of these countries. Beyond reporting on the general situation in this regard, the paper also draws comparative conclusions and offers recommendations to various actors in furtherance of inclusive intergroup relations, social cohesion, and peaceful coexistence in these countries.

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