Evolving Discourse in Syrian Leaders’ UNGA Speeches: A Critical Analysis Using Norman Fairclough’s Framework and Agentless Passive Voice

Authors

  • Xin Lu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/3jd3a503

Keywords:

Critical Discourse Analysis, Agentless Passive Voice, Discourse Evolution, Sentiment Analysis, Geopolitical Challenges

Abstract

This paper analyzes Syrian leaders’ speeches at the United Nations General Assembly from 2009 to 2024 using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and focuses on the use of Agentless Passive Voice (APV). The study reveals the evolution of discourse themes, sentiment shifts, and alliances mentioned. The APV is employed strategically to deflect responsibility, emphasize outcomes, and foster neutrality. The findings provide insights into Syria’s positioning within the international community and its linguistic strategies in response to geopolitical challenges.

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References

[1] Baker, P., Gabriel, A., & McEnery, T. (2019). A corpus-based analysis of the use of agentless passives in British newspapers. Corpora, 14(2), 241-266.

[2] Chilton, P. A., & Schäffner, C. (Eds.). (2020). Politics as text and talk: Analytic approaches to political discourse. John Benjamins Publishing Company.

[3] Fairclough, N. (2020). Critical discourse analysis and the marketization of public discourse: The universities. Discourse & Society, 31(1), 3-26.

[4] Jørgensen, M. W., & Phillips, L. J. (2021). Discourse analysis as theory and method. SAGE Publications.

[5] Machin, D., & Mayr, A. (2021). Media discourse and social change: A critical discourse analysis of news narratives. Journal of Language and Politics, 20(3), 357-378.

[6] van Dijk, T. A. (2020). Discourse and power: A critical approach to language and society. Routledge.

[7] Wodak, R. (2021). The politics of fear: What do critical discourse analysis and sociolinguistics bring to our understanding of right-wing populism? Annual Review of Linguistics, 7(1), 413-434.

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Published

06-02-2025

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Lu, X. (2025). Evolving Discourse in Syrian Leaders’ UNGA Speeches: A Critical Analysis Using Norman Fairclough’s Framework and Agentless Passive Voice . Academic Journal of Management and Social Sciences, 10(1), 67-70. https://doi.org/10.54097/3jd3a503