Framing the narrative: A media analysis of the qatar world cup and its influence on public perception

my research interviews – integrate with media analysis to compare and support the argument 

Interview 1

Joseph Hamilton: Just to confirm, Kerry, you’ve given
your consent to participate in this group study, and this will be a taped
recording for transcription purposes, correct?

Kerry Collins: Yes, that’s correct.

Joseph Hamilton: Great, thank you. Just to clarify,
you won’t need to show your face, and we’ll make every effort to anonymize your
responses to protect your identity. Remember, you’re not obligated to answer
any questions that make you uncomfortable, and you can stop the interview at
any point. Shall we start by turning off our phones to avoid any distractions?

Kerry Collins: Sure, that’s fine by me.

Joseph Hamilton: Excellent. Now, reflecting on when
Qatar was announced as the host for the 2022 World Cup, what were your initial
thoughts?

Kerry Collins: At that time, I was quite young, and
honestly, I was surprised. Qatar seemed like an unusual choice for the World
Cup, and I knew very little about the country. It sparked a curiosity in me
about what the event would be like there.

Joseph Hamilton: Interesting. And how significant do
you think the media’s influence was on public perception of the event?

Kerry Collins: The media’s influence was substantial.
There were many controversies, especially around Qatar’s laws and human rights
issues. Initially, there seemed to be a negative slant, but as the event
neared, the narrative shifted to portray Qatar as a safe and prepared host.

Joseph Hamilton: Did the media coverage before your
departure affect your perception of what to expect in Qatar?

Kerry Collins: Definitely. The documentaries and
reports I watched painted a picture of strict regulations and potential risks,
which made us apprehensive about the trip.

Joseph Hamilton: What specific narratives or biases
did you notice in these media portrayals?

Kerry Collins: One documentary that stood out
followed a visitor from the ‘Visit Qatar’ group who faced legal troubles and
harsh treatment. Such stories created a sense of unease and painted a rather
grim picture of the host country.

Joseph Hamilton: Moving on to societal issues, how
did media coverage of labor rights and human rights influence your view of the
World Cup?

Kerry Collins: There was a lot of focus on the
treatment of the LGBT community and women, raising concerns about their safety
and rights in Qatar. These reports definitely shaped my view and heightened
concerns about attending the event.

Joseph Hamilton: Did you encounter any misinformation
or exaggerated reports in the media, and how did these compare to your actual
experiences in Qatar?

Kerry Collins: Upon arriving, I felt safe and
welcomed, which contrasted with the media’s alarming pre-event coverage. Even
interactions with local news outlets in Qatar seemed to challenge the
narratives I had seen before.

Joseph Hamilton: Which media sources do you generally
trust for sports news, and how did they report on the World Cup?

Kerry Collins: I usually follow Sky Sports for sports
news. They provided a balanced view, but as the event kicked off, the coverage
seemed to focus more on the celebratory aspects, overshadowing earlier
controversies.

Joseph Hamilton: Overall, did you find the media
coverage to be fair and balanced, or did it lean towards a particular
viewpoint?

Kerry Collins: Before the event, the coverage was
quite critical, but it became more positive once the World Cup started. This
shift might have influenced public opinion, making the event seem more
successful and enjoyable than initially portrayed.

Joseph Hamilton: Finally, what’s your overall
assessment of the Qatar World Cup? Would you support similar events in the
Middle East in the future?

Kerry Collins: The World Cup in Qatar was a massive
success in my eyes. It was an exhilarating experience that reminded me of the
joy and unity that football brings. I would definitely support hosting such
events in the Middle East again, as it can challenge stereotypes and bring
people together.

Joseph Hamilton: Thank you for your insights, Kerry.
Your experiences offer a valuable perspective on the complexities of media
influence and the reality of attending a major event like the World Cup.

Kerry Collins: No problem, glad to share my
experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interview 2

Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today. Can you start
by sharing your overall impression of the World Cup in Qatar?

 

Participant: Definitely. The World Cup in Qatar was a
remarkable event. The energy was palpable, with fans from every corner of the
globe gathering in celebration of football. The infrastructure was top-notch,
and the organization was impressive, considering the scale of the event.

 

Interviewer: There was extensive media coverage on various
issues leading up to the World Cup. What key themes did you notice, and how do
you think they influenced public perception?

 

Participant: The media spotlighted several key themes: human
rights concerns, the treatment of migrant workers, the country’s readiness for
such a large event, and the environmental impact of hosting in the desert.
These narratives created a skeptical pre-event public perception, casting doubt
on Qatar’s suitability as a host.

 

Interviewer: And once you were there, how did your
perspective evolve?

 

Participant: Being there offered a different view. The
cultural richness and the hospitality were striking. Yet, the issues reported
by the media were visible too. It wasn’t all perfect, but it wasn’t the whole
story before the event. The experience was more nuanced than the initial
black-and-white portrayal.

 

Interviewer: In what ways do you think the World Cup has
impacted Qatar’s image internationally?

 

Participant: The World Cup acted as a double-edged sword. It
put Qatar on the global map as a capable event host and showcased their
advancements and cultural wealth. Conversely, it also exposed and magnified
their societal and political flaws, keeping the global dialogue around these
issues alive.

 

Interviewer: Throughout the event, did the media’s narrative
regarding Qatar change?

 

Participant: The narrative became more balanced during the
event. The coverage broadened to include the exciting matches, fan experiences,
and cultural exchanges. However, the critical coverage on human rights and
labor issues persisted, maintaining a level of scrutiny.

 

Interviewer: What changes did you observe in the country
during the World Cup?

 

Participant: The country seemed to transform into a more
open society. The influx of international visitors created a melting pot of
cultures. It felt like Qatar was showcasing a more liberal and welcoming side,
possibly as a strategic move to improve its global image.

 

Interviewer: How effective do you think the World Cup was in
altering the global narrative about Qatar?

 

Participant: It was effective to a degree. Visitors and
those who engaged deeply with the event likely gained a more layered
understanding of Qatar. However, for the broader global audience, the impact
would vary based on the media narratives they were exposed to. The World Cup
provided Qatar with a platform to challenge and complexify the prevailing
narratives, but it didn’t wholly transform them.

 

Interviewer: Can you elaborate on the role of international
events like the World Cup in influencing public perception of host countries?

 

Participant: International events are potent in shaping
perceptions. They offer a stage for countries to display their cultural,
social, and economic progress. However, they also attract global attention that
can spotlight deficiencies, leading to increased scrutiny. The balance between
positive showcasing and potential exposure of negative aspects makes these
events a dynamic force in shaping a country’s international image.

 

Interviewer: Thank you for your detailed insights. It seems
the World Cup in Qatar was a multifaceted event with significant implications
for the country’s global perception.

 

Participant: Absolutely, it was a complex event with
multiple layers of impact. I’m glad to share my observations and contribute to
the discussion on its broader implications.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interview 3.

GPT

Extended Interview Transcript: World Cup Qatar 2022

Interviewer: Welcome, and thank you for sharing your
experience at the Qatar World Cup. To start, what were your first impressions
upon arriving in Qatar for the event?

 

Participant: Thank you for having me. Arriving in Qatar was
like stepping into a fusion of tradition and modernity. The skyline,
infrastructure, and the buzz around the World Cup were immediately striking.
There was a palpable sense of pride and excitement in the air.

 

Interviewer: There’s been much talk about the impact of
media on public perception. What themes did you notice in the media coverage
before the event, and how did they affect your expectations?

 

Participant: The media coverage was intense, focusing on
themes like human rights, the treatment of migrant workers, the country’s
conservative laws, and how prepared Qatar was for such a colossal event. These
reports created a mixed sense of anticipation and skepticism, setting a complex
backdrop for the event.

 

Interviewer: Upon experiencing the World Cup firsthand, how
did your views on these issues evolve?

 

Participant: Being there provided a broader context. I saw
impressive infrastructure and witnessed the cultural vibrancy and hospitality
of the Qatari people. Yet, the concerns highlighted by the media, especially
regarding labor rights and social issues, were also evident. The experience was
eye-opening, showing both progress and areas needing significant attention.

 

Interviewer: How do you think hosting the World Cup has
affected Qatar’s image on the international stage?

 

Participant: Hosting the World Cup was a monumental PR
exercise for Qatar, showcasing their capabilities and determination to be a
global hub. It certainly enhanced their international profile, but it also kept
the spotlight on their societal and political challenges. It’s a narrative of
contrast and contradiction.

 

Interviewer: Did you observe any shifts in media portrayal
of Qatar during the World Cup?

 

Participant: Yes, the narrative evolved as the event
progressed. Early on, there was a focus on potential issues and controversies.
As the tournament continued, the narrative shifted towards the excitement of
the games and the positive experiences of fans, which helped soften the earlier
critical views, though these underlying issues remained in the discourse.

 

Interviewer: What about the atmosphere in Qatar during the
event? How did the country adapt to hosting such a diverse international crowd?

 

Participant: The atmosphere was electric. Qatar transformed
into a global village, buzzing with different languages, cultures, and
celebrations. The country seemed to open up, relaxing some cultural norms to
accommodate the international audience, which created a more inclusive and
festive environment.

 

Interviewer: Reflecting on the World Cup’s conclusion, what
impact do you believe it had on global perceptions of Qatar?

 

Participant: The World Cup has likely left a mixed legacy on
global perceptions of Qatar. For many, it was a successful showcase of Qatar’s
growth and hospitality. However, the event also ensured continued international
scrutiny of its societal practices and governance. It highlighted that while
Qatar can host a spectacular global event, it still grapples with critical
internal issues.

 

Interviewer: How do you see the role of such international
events in shaping the image of host countries?

 

Participant: These events are powerful platforms for
countries to project their desired image and narrative. They can significantly
boost a nation’s profile and tourism, introducing its culture to a global
audience. However, they also bring intense international scrutiny, making it a
balancing act between showcasing achievements and managing criticism.

 

Interviewer: Any final thoughts on how Qatar managed this
global spotlight and the overall execution of the World Cup?

 

Participant: Qatar demonstrated exceptional logistical and
organizational capabilities, managing the global spotlight with a mix of
assertiveness and hospitality. The execution of the World Cup was impressive,
reflecting years of meticulous planning and investment. However, the event also
served as a reminder of the ongoing challenges Qatar faces, showcasing that
while it can host a world-class event, the road to societal reform is long and
complex.

 

Interviewer: Thank you for your comprehensive insights. Your
experiences and observations provide a nuanced view of the World Cup’s impact
on Qatar and its international standing.

 

Participant: It was a pleasure to discuss this with you. The
World Cup in Qatar was a multifaceted event, and I’m glad to share my
perspective on its many dimensions.

 

Interview 4

 

Joseph Hamilton: Alex. Before we delve into the World Cup,
could you tell us about your background in sports journalism and your journey
to covering the World Cup in Qatar?

 

Alex Morgan: Thanks, Joseph. I’ve been a sports journalist
for over a decade, covering a range of sports, but football has always been my
passion. Covering the World Cup in Qatar was the culmination of years of
following the bid process, the controversies, and the preparations leading up
to the event.

 

Pre-Event Perceptions

Joseph: What were your expectations going into the World Cup
in Qatar, especially given the mixed media coverage?

 

Alex: My expectations were complex. I was excited about the
football but apprehensive about the social and political backdrop. The media
coverage ranged from optimistic about the sporting aspect to critical of
Qatar’s human rights record, which created a multifaceted perspective.

 

Joseph: Can you discuss the specific controversies that
caught your attention in the lead-up to the World Cup?

 

Alex: Certainly. The treatment of migrant workers and the
kafala system were major concerns. There were also questions about the
appropriateness of hosting the World Cup in such a hot climate and how Qatar’s
conservative laws would align with the diverse international audience of the
event.

 

Experiencing Qatar

Joseph: Upon arriving, what struck you first about the
country and the atmosphere?

 

Alex: The first thing that struck me was the sheer scale of
preparation and the modernity of the infrastructure. Despite the controversies,
there was a palpable sense of excitement and pride among the Qatari people
about hosting the World Cup.

 

Joseph: During the event, how did your interactions with
locals and your experiences at the games influence your view of Qatar?

 

Alex: Those interactions were eye-opening. The hospitality
was exceptional, and the games themselves were a celebration of global unity.
These experiences helped me see beyond the negative media narratives,
highlighting the country’s passion for football and its efforts to create an
inclusive atmosphere.

 

Media’s Role and Coverage

Joseph: How did you perceive the media’s role in shaping
public opinion before and during the World Cup?

 

Alex: The media wielded significant influence. Before the
event, the focus was on potential issues and criticisms. However, during the
World Cup, the narrative shifted to the excitement of the tournament, though
the critical undertones persisted.

 

Joseph: Did you find any particular aspect of the World Cup
coverage to be misleading or surprisingly accurate?

 

Alex: Some reports exaggerated the negative aspects,
creating a sense of apprehension that didn’t match my experiences. However, the
coverage of the sporting events was spot-on, capturing the thrilling atmosphere
of the matches.

 

Reflections and Impact

Joseph: Reflecting on the event’s conclusion, how do you
think the World Cup has altered the global perception of Qatar?

 

Alex: The World Cup has undoubtedly changed perceptions,
showcasing Qatar’s capabilities and hospitality. While it hasn’t erased the
criticisms, it has added layers to the global understanding of the country.

 

Joseph: What legacy do you believe the World Cup has left
for Qatar and the international community?

 

Alex: The legacy is multifaceted. For Qatar, it’s a step
towards establishing itself as a global sporting destination. Internationally,
it has sparked discussions on human rights and the responsibilities of hosting
major events, which is a positive outcome.

 

Conclusion

Joseph: Considering everything, what would you say are the
key takeaways from the World Cup experience in Qatar?

 

Alex: The key takeaways are the importance of cultural
understanding and the power of sport to unite people from diverse backgrounds.
The World Cup in Qatar challenged stereotypes and demonstrated the complexities
of hosting such a significant global event.

 

Joseph: Finally, what advice would you give to future host
countries and to the media in covering similar events?

 

Alex: Future hosts should focus on transparency and
leveraging the event for positive social change. For the media, the advice
would be to strive for balanced coverage that respects the nuances of the host
country while not shying away from critical, constructive reporting.

 

Joseph: Alex, your insights have been incredibly valuable.
Thank you for sharing your experiences and perspectives with us.

 

Alex: Thank you, Joseph. It’s been a pleasure discussing
these important topics and reflecting on such a pivotal event in the world of
football.