Abstract

This thesis analyzes the role of the media in framing public opinion towards two conflicts in Cameroon, the Bakassi Peninsula and the Ambazonian crisis. The study compares state, independent, and international media reports between 2017 and 2024 to analyze how different media frame these conflict to influence public opinion. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research combines qualitative content analysis with quantitative coding of 169 articles from various sources such as Camer.be, 237online, BBC, and Al Jazeera using MAXQDA software. The results show decisive framing patterns, i.e., state media highlight sovereignty and legality as its concerns and make frequent use of inflammatory language in delegitimizing separatists. Independent media construct humanitarian crises and historical injustices, and international media balance human rights against geopolitical considerations and adopt more neutral tones. These differences are in line with the propaganda model, narrative theory, and framing theory, illustrating the ways in which media can speak on behalf of marginal actors, legitimate state action, or put international pressure. The study highlights the necessity of conflict-sensitive reporting as well as media diversity to uphold peace and democratic discourse in post-conflict countries like Cameroon, calling for a requirement of knowledge of media framing in resolving conflicts effectively. …víceméně