South Asian Print Media and Climate Discourse: A Framing Analysis of COP28 and COP29

Abstract

Aim of Study: The current study examines how South Asian media (leading English newspapers) framed the climate change news stories, columns, and editorials during the international global climate change summits (CoP 28 and CoP 29).

Methodology: This study examines the use of episodic and thematic frames in environmental and climate change reporting by Dawn (Pakistan), The Times of India (India), and The Daily Star (Bangladesh) through content analysis. A total of 568 articles from these English newspapers published during the periods surrounding the COP 28 (Dubai, 2023) and COP 29 (Baku, 2024) events were analyzed. The study applies agenda-setting theory to explore media influence on public perception and policy discourse. A purposive sampling technique was used to collect the data. 

Findings: The findings indicate that episodic frames dominated coverage (55.3%) compared to thematic frames (44.7%), with The Times of India (India) contributing the highest number of news items/ articles.

Conclusion: Coverage was more extensive for COP-28 compared to COP-29, with themes such as climate finance and GHG emissions dominating press coverage. These framing patterns reflect climate vulnerability, government model, political systems, priorities, and media strategies of selected countries. The study highlights regional inequality in climate journalism and climate coverage. It suggests the need for more balanced, context-driven thematic framing to address climate emergencies effectively. These insights are significant for researchers, media practitioners, and decision-makers planning to enhance public engagement, climate communication, and promote cooperation in the South Asian region.