Reframing the Taliban: A critical discourse analysis of media narratives in Pakistan,China and the United States

Abstract

This article explores the media representation of the Taliban in Pakistan, China and the US following their 2021 return to power. Employing Fairclough’s (1992) critical discourse analysis framework outlined in his article in Discourse & Society 3(2), the study compares The New York Times, Dawn and China Daily narratives depicting the Taliban rule between 2021 and 2024. The authors reveal how national interests and geopolitical factors influence these portrayals. The US media typically frames the Taliban as a threat to global stability and human rights, particularly regarding treatment of women. In contrast, the media in Pakistan and China adopt a more pragmatic stance, emphasizing regional security, stability and economic cooperation. The analysis highlights the historical, political and ideological contexts that underpin these differing perspectives. Ultimately, this study enhances our understanding of the media’s role in shaping international discourse, demonstrating how news outlets reflect the strategic interests of their respective nations.