As a newly admitted doctoral student, Svenja Hix is currently working on refining her research questions, but she already has a clear idea of what her dissertation will address.
“I will study the role of news media and the challenges facing journalism in a time of democratic backsliding,” she says.
Svenja Hix was born in Germany but spent her childhood in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja – an upbringing she describes as sheltered yet shaped by various political tensions. Since 2009, armed conflicts have been ongoing in the country, with jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) as the main actors. The conflicts have forced millions of people to flee.
“At the same time, there are other unresolved tensions in Nigeria, such as religious conflicts and tensions between different ethnic groups. These conflicts often concern political representation, access to resources, and control over land. Together, they contribute to a complex political situation. Growing up in such an environment sparked my interest in politics.”
Began her academic career with studies in political science
When she was 12, her family moved back to Germany. After finishing secondary school, Svenja Hix began studying political science at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz. During her studies, she completed an internship with a non-profit organization in Ghana, where she learned more about the interaction between human rights, political freedoms, and practical politics.
This, in turn, sparked another interest that eventually brought her to Sweden.
“I decided to continue my academic path and specialize in political communication. That’s why I applied to the Master’s Programme in Political Communication at the University of Gothenburg and was admitted. During the programme, I deepened my knowledge of how politics is communicated, how journalists work in politically tense environments, and the role journalism can play in crises.”
Svenja Hix has also been involved in organizations such as Amnesty International and Individual Humanitarian Aid to learn more about human rights work. At the same time, she has become increasingly aware of how political freedoms are being challenged even in Western countries, of changing attitudes toward migration, and of the rise of right-wing populist movements.
“For me, questions about how news media should report on statements by right-wing politicians, how they should cover critical events while remaining objective and safeguarding democracy, are central. While journalists in Nigeria may face direct threats to their lives and severely restricted press freedom, journalists in European democracies encounter other types of challenges.”
How does it feel to be at JMG?
“It feels fantastic! Starting here felt like being welcomed into a family that shares the same interests and is very supportive. From the very beginning, I felt that my ideas are valued and that my colleagues are genuinely interested in my research. I look forward to the coming years of work and learning here at the department,” says Svenja Hix.
