The Truth That the Media Does Not See: An Analysis of Traffic Accident News About Seasonal Agricultural Workers in the Context of Framing Theory

Abstract

The aim of the study is to draw attention to the need for the media to develop a more sensitive and inclusive representation language in the news about these workers, seasonal agricultural workers. In this context, the study analyzes existing patterns of media representation of seasonal agricultural workers through a purposive sample of 14 news articles selected from a total of 45 traffic accident reports involving seasonal agricultural workers, published on the website of Milliyet newspaper between 2014 and 2024. Analyses conducted using the framing method have revealed that agricultural workers gain news value predominantly in the context of tragic events and accidents. In news coverage, these workers are often portrayed through stereotypes such as ‘poor’, ‘victim’ or ‘oppressed’. The examined reports tend to emphasize the emotional and dramatic aspects of incidents while failing to adequately address the underlying structural problems, instances of negligence, and necessary preventive measures. This approach contributes to the neglect of more fundamental and systemic issues faced by seasonal agricultural workers, including their limited access to basic rights, poor working and living conditions, and the disruption of family unity.