Ethnic Conflict and International Relations: an analysis of Metaphorical Construction of the Sri Lankan English Newspaper Editorials.

Abstract

This study examines the metaphorical construction of ethnic conflict and international relations in Sri Lankan English newspaper editorials published during the ceasefire period between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (2001–2007). Grounded in Critical Discourse Analysis and Social Constructivist perspectives, the research analyses approximately seventy-five editorials drawn from major national English newspapers to identify dominant metaphorical frames and discursive strategies employed in representing political actors, international intervention, and peace negotiations. The analysis reveals systematic patterns of metaphorical dichotomisation, whereby ideological positions are constructed through binary oppositions such as “us” versus “them,” “good” versus “bad,” and “legitimate” versus “illegitimate.” These metaphors function as persuasive devices that legitimise state actions, delegitimise opposing groups, and shape public perceptions of international involvement in the conflict. The findings further demonstrate that metaphorical scripts drawn from historical and geopolitical narratives are employed to evoke cultural nationalism and moral authority, thereby reinforcing ethnonationalist ideologies. The study concludes that metaphorical discourse in editorials plays a significant role in framing political reality, influencing public opinion, and sustaining dominant ideological positions during periods of political negotiation and conflict resolution.