Original research
by
Ekendahl, Mats, Josefin Månsson & Patrik Karlsson
Release Date
2023
Geography
Sweden
Language of Resource
English
Full Text Available
Yes
Open Access / OK to Reproduce
Yes
Peer Reviewed
Yes
Objective
This study analyzes how cannabis is constructed in Swedish newspaper articles that mention both organized crime and cannabis. We ask how the drug and its buyers and sellers are described, what discourses are drawn upon, and discuss the relationship between media coverage and drug policy.
Findings/Key points
The study shows that assumedly neutral journalistic voices emphasized the link between cannabis and violence and problematized cannabis buyers and sellers. This homogenous media coverage will probably contribute to keep the question of cannabis law reform discursively lifeless in Sweden.
Design/methods
Analyzed articles (n=71) from four newspapers
Keywords
Illegal drugs
Policy/Regulatory
Crime
