In Media We Trust? Mainstream media perceptions and media trust of Moroccan Dutch citizens in the Netherlands

Many studies have reported declining levels of media trust over the last years. Reasons vary from increased polarization to the spread of social media and misinformation. In any case, traditional media is under increased pressure to keep being an attractive tool for citizens to stay informed. Because the role of the media is critical for functioning societies and democracies, in which the notion trust is essential, this present study aims to shed light on media perceptions of Dutch mainstream media and media trust among the Moroccan Dutch minority in the Netherlands. The twelve semi-structured interviews that were conducted show that while media perceptions and levels of media trust are very diverse among Moroccan Dutch, many feel that biased media representation and media-generated stereotypes are still present in media content. Their perceptions and media trust have effects on their media consumption strategies and behavior vis-à-vis non-Muslim Dutch. Media consumption strategies that were reported include checking sources and statements, or turning to Middle Eastern and alternative media when Moroccan Dutch feel that media coverage is biased, incomplete or inaccurate. Other issues that were discovered through the interviews, were the lack of diversity, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and media coverage of Palestine, which all affected participants’ perceptions and trust levels regarding Dutch mainstream media. This research advocates for the construction of a strong body of literature regarding media perceptions and media trust among minority groups, and takes into accounts the complexities and nuances that trust entails.