FROM CONFLICT TO COEXISTENCE? ISLAM–WEST RELATIONS IN MASS MEDIA NARRATIVES

Mass media is a powerful tool of mass communication, as information, opinion, propaganda, entertainment, and other forms of expression are conveyed to a very large audience. People believe what they see on television, read in newspapers, and scroll on social media platforms. The terrorist attack of 9/11 enabled conspirators to cast a negative media effect on Islam. Islam has become synonymous with terrorism. The media somehow portrayed Islam and its beliefs as promoting terrorism. People hurled abuses and labeled the Muslims as warmongers and terrorists. In the 21st century, over-the-top (OTT) content platforms manipulate Islam’s true image. In addition, social media promoting propaganda against Muslims through fake information is the most common form of barrier between the West and Islam. The dissemination of fake information personifies Muslims as terrorists, fueling Islamophobia. If the content broadcast in mass media is supported by true Islamic values and exhibits content related to the orders given in the Quran and Sunnah, it may help bridge the exacerbating gap between Islam and the West. Muslim states must prepare such content to show, which could be able to improve the tarnished image of Muslims synonymous with terrorists. It is the responsibility of the Islamic States to try to separate the notion of Muslims and terrorists through positive mass media content building, as it seems very challenging in times when people believe and generate opinions and build their mindsets through mere scrolling on social media.