The Media’s Influence on Shaping Public Opinion during Martial Law
Yuriy M. Bidzilya, Yevhen O. Solomin, Viacheslav Shvets, Andrii Heletei, Hanna I. Hetsko · Journal of Intercultural Communication · 2024
This article explores the role of various media in shaping public opinion during martial law in Ukraine. The study aims to evaluate the extent to which media influences public perception, unity, and societal response under the conditions of military conflict. The research methods employed include content analysis of mass media materials, sociological surveys, and graphic and comparative analyses to measure media impact. The study is based on data from sociological surveys and the thematic content of regional media from 2021 to 2023, encompassing key breaking news and regional media narratives. The findings reveal that media play a vital role in disseminating information, promoting national unity, and highlighting critical issues such as support for the armed forces and humanitarian aid. The influence of Internet sources and regional media has notably strengthened, with much of the content focusing on war-related issues, societal consolidation, volunteerism, and aid for victims. The study also identifies that, during crises, media can shape worldviews, influence political polarization, and mobilize public engagement through patriotic narratives and volunteer campaigns. The research concludes that media, especially regional outlets, significantly contribute to societal cohesion and informed decision-making during martial law. However, challenges such as media bias and potential manipulation remain. The study findings can contribute to understanding the role of the media in the conditions of military conflict and the formation of public opinion.