Abstract

This article focuses on the European leader communication patterns about refugees. For this purpose, the speeches of the European Union (EU) leaders (Juncker), of a pro-refugee country, Germany (Merkel), and of an anti-refugee one, Hungary (Orbán), are analyzed. Qualitative content analysis, integrating thematic analysis and rhetorical analysis, is used. The results show an integrative, humanitarian and pragmatic version by Juncker and Merkel and a Manichean and segregationist approach by Orbán, not suitable to the European identity and values. Rhetorically and generally, discourses absorb persuasive devices, such as the Aristotle's ethos, pathos and logos, and propagandistic devices, such as orchestration and transfusion. Other discursive devices used are: Manichaeism, the antithesis, the metaphor, the disfigurement, contextual elements, the number game, quotes of reputed personalities, the convocation to empathy, the enlargement or hyperbolization, the exploration of the legitimate community expectations, reference to common good or good causes.