A Comparative Analysis of Dominant Narratives Surrounding Nuclear-, Wind- and Solar Energy in Dutch Media Articles Before and After the Start of the Russo-Ukrainian War
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2025-08-15
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en
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This study looks at how the outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian war influenced narratives and discourse surrounding nuclear, wind and solar energy sources in Dutch media articles. It analyses 40 articles from six major Dutch news using the Discourse-Historical Approach (DHA). Using a combined theoretical framework consisting of Framing Theory, Agenda-Setting Theory and Gramscian Theory, this study shows how framing of the different energy sources shifted. Previously, nuclear, wind and solar energy sources were mainly discussed in terms of climate goals and sustainability, as well as in terms of financials. However, following the outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian war, which triggered an energy crisis in Europe, narratives of energy independence and security emerged. Frames of sustainability now shared the stage with these security-based frames, and nuclear energy was framed as a much more favorable and realistic option in comparison to the months leading up to the start of the war. Additionally, narratives of risks and nuclear disasters were less visible in the months after the start of the armed conflict in Ukraine. Wind and solar were still framed as viable energy sources, but received more criticism; spatial limitation, grid congestion and reliability issues were now serious concerns within Dutch media articles.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen