Persistent stereotypes, systemic structural barriers, and the invisibility of migrants in European media
Reports from Italy, Greece, Malta, and Spain highlight recurring crisis-driven narratives, limited access to the journalism profession, and significant underrepresentation of migrants and racialised groups, alongside the emergence of alternative practices.
The MILD project (More correct Information, Less Discrimination) has published four national research reports from Italy, Greece, Malta, and Spain, examining how migrants, refugees, and racialised groups are portrayed in the media and how professionals perceive access, inclusion, and discrimination within the sector.
The research was conducted between May and August 2025 and involved 68 professionals from journalism, civil society, academia, and communication. The findings reveal systemic trends: persistent stereotypes, inequalities in access to the profession, and the near absence of migrant voices from public narratives, despite a growing recognition of the need for change.
Participants described a notable absence of migrant voices in news stories and public debates. Migrants are often “spoken about rather than spoken with,” limiting their ability to participate in public life.
When they do appear, it is usually in fragmented and passive roles — as victims, numbers, or background figures.
Emerging good practices do exist.
Among them:
- migrant-led media outlets,
- NGO–media partnerships,
- ethical journalism practices,
- storytelling and media literacy programmes,
- improved communication strategies by NGOs.
The four national reports will contribute to the consolidated European report to be published in early 2026.
The full texts are available for download at the link provided.
About the MILD project
MILD — More Correct Information, Less Discrimination — is an EU-funded project coordinated by Lunaria (Italy) with partners African Media Association Malta, ANTIGONE (Greece), Carta di Roma (Italy), and Maldita.es (Spain).
Its aim is to improve the accuracy, diversity, and ethical quality of media coverage concerning migrants, refugees, and racialised groups in Europe.