NARRATIVES OF DISASTER AND PUBLIC PERCEPTION IN PAKISTANI PRINT MEDIA: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF THE 2022 FLOODS AND GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

Abstract

Pakistan suffered huge human and economic loss during 2022 due to one of the most devastating floods in history. This research relied on a critical discourse analysis (CDA) paradigm to examine three well-known Pakistani newspapers Dawn, The Express Tribune, and The News. This research examined the coverage of the floods and the government's reaction in Pakistani print media in 2022. Examining the origins, effects, and responses of the disaster through the lenses of surrounding narratives illuminated the public's perception of the situation and the question of government accountability.  The research's theme analysis revealed important narratives and framing strategies used in the headlines. Results showed that Calamities caused by climate change and media coverage had a complicated interaction of ideologies. Climate change, insufficient infrastructure, human costs, social inequality, government responsibility, long-term resilience, and public engagement were major narratives established in the headlines of the news related to this natural disaster. The study also highlights the effects of media framing strategies such as analogies, juxtapositions, and emphasis on public perceptions regarding the reactions and Responsibilities of the government during natural disasters. During times of natural disasters, this study helps us better understand how the media shapes public discourse. It provides useful insights for future studies on government response and catastrophe communication, and it is in line with CDA, Agenda Setting Theory, and Framing Theory, among others.