Ludwig, Anna (2026) A problem in the cityscape or in the mindscape? A Critical Discourse Analysis of the German Chancellor’s language on (im-)migration. Bachelor thesis, Global Responsibility & Leadership (GRL).
|
PDF
BA5624665ALudwig.pdf Download (827kB) | Preview |
Abstract
Abstract In October 2025, the German chancellor Friedrich Merz intensified already heated discussions on (im-)migration with his “problem in the cityscape” and follow-up “ask your daughters” statement. Taking the approach of critical discourse analysis, this research paper answers the research question: How does language as utilised by Germany’s current chancellor Friedrich Merz amplify anti-(im-)migration sentiments in German society? In the scope of this study I analysed the two public responses that surround the viral cityscape statements. Using a combination of van Dijk’s ideological square and Fairclough’s three level analysis, I performed a linguistic analysis followed by a discursive and social practices analysis situating the responses in their wider sociopolitical context. The findings reveal that Merz’s language-use employs the broader technique of polarisation constituting the in-group of a homogenous German society against the out-group of migrants and racialised individuals. These results suggest a continuation of racist narratives and othering as evident throughout German history, nationality law and shared values and belief systems of the centre-right and far-right. In line with CDA these findings call for in depth engagement with underlying belief systems and ideologies as present in German society. Keywords: Critical Discourse Analysis, (im-)migration, Friedrich Merz, polarisation, othering
| Item Type: | Thesis (Bachelor) |
|---|---|
| Name supervisor: | Yousefzadeh Faal Daghati, S. |
| Date Deposited: | 10 Jun 2026 13:13 |
| Last Modified: | 10 Jun 2026 13:13 |
| URI: | https://campus-fryslan.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/839 |
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |