Thai Newspapers and News Framing in Reports Related to Promotion of Human Rights of the Elderly
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Abstract
This study examines the presentation of news about the elderly in mainstream Thai newspapers and by online news agencies between July and December 2018, covering 12 news sources in total. This study employs concepts of news framing and media representation in relation to the promotion of human rights of the elderly in Thailand. The research suggests that most Thai newspapers act as vigilant mediators that carefully support the human rights of the elderly. Although a few general news reports create negative images of the elderly, other, more specific news reports tend to emphasize or promote human rights of the elderly, with a focus on social and economic dimensions rather than political rights. The pattern of news framing and media representation of the elderly shows that most news reports are reactive to government policy related to the elderly rather than proactive. The elderly are also often portrayed as potential customers and clients of the private sector. As the country is moving towards an aging society, one might expect that, over time, reports will increasingly integrate issues related to the elderly with other social sectors so as to create broader understanding. Accordingly, it is necessary for the media to find a balance in coverage of the elderly in order to reduce prejudice based on age whilst framing and representing the elderly in a more proactive and progressive fashion.
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