Comparative exploration of media models and euthanasia coverage in Portugal and the United Kingdom

Abstract

Purpose. To conduct a comparative analysis of news coverage of euthanasia in Portugal and the United Kingdom between 2016 and 2024, identifying structural and cultural differences derived from their respective media models. Methodology. A content analysis was applied to 1,731 news items published on the digital platforms of Expresso, Público, The Guardian, and The Telegraph. Variables examined included authorship, journalistic genre, length, topic, geographical scope, use and role of sources, and degree of explanation and contextualisation. Statistical tests with 5,000 bootstrap samples were employed. Results and Conclusions. Portuguese media relied more on news agencies and focused on political and national topics, but no significant differences were found in the average number of stories or in the level of contextualisation and terminological explanation. The findings partially support Hallin and Mancini’s (2004) media systems models and Hanitzsch’s (2007) theory of journalistic cultures, indicating that thematic sensitivity and professional routines may relativise systemic structures. Singularities. The study provides a replicable empirical and comparative framework that integrates macro (media systems) and meso (journalistic cultures) levels to understand how structural and cultural factors shape the coverage of ethically sensitive issues.