The issue of classification of hate speech against migrants (the case study of the Republic of Mordovia)

Introduction. The performed analysis of coverage of migration issues in electronic media shows that hate speech against migrants is becoming common practice despite the existing regulatory restrictions on its use. This determined the choice of this issue for the research, aimed at studying the causes, forms and contexts of using hate speech against migrants (the case study of the Republic of Mordovia). Materials and Methods. Texts on migration issues published in electronic versions of regional media were used as the materials of the study; discourse analysis was used as the main method. Results. The main reason for using hate speech against migrants has been identified; it is reproduction of negative cliches and stereotypes that contribute to the perception of migrants as a source of economic, health, environmental, personal, social, political threats, etc. The authors have proposed the content and formal criteria for classification of hate speech against migrants. Recommendations on limiting the use of hate speech against migrants in public discourse have been offered. Recommendations of this kind are usually associated with a change in rhetoric at the textual and contextual levels; however the authors consider a change in coverage and perception of migration issues at the metacontextual level to be the most important factor. Discussion and Conclusion. The research materials will be useful in developing migration policies and measures to harmonize social relations in the region. The data obtained can be used by state and municipal authorities, journalists, and representatives of the educational community.