Framings of xenophobic discourses of international students on social media posts: a netnographic study

Amid persistent xenophobic and racist attitudes and even denial of immigrant students’ presence, this study examines social media discourse targeting them in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Using a qualitative netnographic approach, it analyzes posts, likes, shares, and comments on Facebook and Instagram. A dataset of 876 posts reveals dominant narratives portraying immigrant students as economic, cultural, or security threats. The findings show that such rhetoric harms students’ social and educational experiences, fostering isolation and marginalization. The study underscores the powerful role of media framing in shaping public perceptions and highlights the need for more balanced, inclusive representations. It also offers insights that inform pedagogical considerations and responses to discrimination in educational contexts.