Conclusions
The conducted questionnaire survey allowed us to form some idea about the media preferences of the Belarusan diaspora and its perception of information from Belarusan state mass media. The survey covered 110 respondents and female respondents living in Poland, mostly young and able-bodied, which, as we think, reflects the actual demographic structure of migration from Belarus. The portrait of the participants demonstrates an even gender distribution, with a significant predominance of recent migrants with one to three years of residence experience.
The research revealed a low level of trust to Belarusian state mass media among the diaspora representatives. More than a half of respondents completely avoid these sources, and those who consume them, note predominantly negative assessments of both the content reliability and the general tone of the materials. The topics related to Poland, life abroad and activity of the Belarusan diaspora in the state media are characterised by tendentiousness, emphasis on negative aspects and manipulative approach.
Key themes identified in analysing the responses to the open-ended questions include the following aspects:
- Formation of negative images of foreign countries: Special attention is paid to the dissemination of narratives about poverty, inflation, discrimination of migrants and instability abroad. In particular, respondents mentioned exaggerated reports about the difficulties of life in Poland, such as empty shops or cruel treatment of Belarusians.
- Creating a fear of emigration: Belarusian state media emphasise the risks of migration, condemn “fugitives” and warn against participation in the public life of the diaspora, forming negative attitudes towards emigration.
- Excellence of Belarus: Narratives emphasise stability in Belarus and the superiority of the Belarusian system over Western models.
- Discrediting Poland: A separate place is occupied by accusing the Polish authorities of destabilising Belarus, which is used to create a hostile image of the host country.
Despite the obvious manipulative orientation of the content of Belarusian state media, the majority of respondents demonstrate critical perception of information and resistance to propaganda.
Nevertheless, the diaspora notes the indirect influence of propaganda, which is manifested through the creation of an atmosphere of anxiety and threat. This can affect the activity of community members, their involvement in public life. Thus, the analysis underlines that Belarusian state mass media have a limited direct influence on the diaspora in Poland, but their impact through the creation of a negative emotional background remains a factor that cannot be ignored. In this context, the development of media literacy, increase of critical perception of information and support of the information sovereignty of the diaspora (creation of independent media platforms, dialogue with local media, etc.) are of special importance.
The findings underscore the importance of further study of the information impact on emigrant communities, including analyses of strategies to counter propaganda. This is particularly relevant for strengthening the internal unity of the diaspora, preserving its social activism and enhancing its role in strengthening ties between countries.
