Agenda Setting Role of Print Media in Shaping Civil-Military Discourse in Pakistan: A Decade in Review (2008-2018)

1.Dr. Hassan Siddique  2.Umer Farooqi  3.Shiraz Hasnat

Abstract

This study highlights the significant role of print media in Pakistan from 2008 to 2018 in shaping civil-military debates and setting agendas, showcasing the media's potential impact on public opinion and civil-military relations. The study examines four Pakistani newspapers' editorials on civil-military ties using content analysis as its research approach. The results show that the Pakistani press contributed significantly to agenda-setting by emphasizing civil[1]military concerns. In the selected newspapers throughout the study period, thirteen categories of civil-military issues were covered; certain issues received more prominence than others. The study also found that over a decade, there were observable patterns and trends in how civil-military issues were reported in the Pakistani press. The study emphasizes the media's potential impact on public opinion and civil-military interactions. During the 2008–2018 study period, the Pakistani press was crucial in addressing specific civil-military concerns. Different publications covered these problems differently, revealing varying priorities and viewpoints.