Representation of the Salafi in Tunisian TV Drama between 2011 - 2025ˆ

Abstract

This study aims to examine the representation of Salafis in Tunisian television drama produced between 2011 and 2025, whether by the public broadcaster or private channels, and to analyze these portrayals in order to distinguish between stereotypical and non-stereotypical depictions. The research is based on a qualitative methodology and a content analysis of four television series. The findings indicate that issues related to Salafism have become less prominent due to the decline of Salafi activities in real life. The results also show that television drama—particularly that produced by private channels—did not present a stereotypical image of Salafis, unlike public television drama, which portrayed the Salafi exclusively as violent and extremist. The study concludes that television drama should play a constructive role by offering positive human models and role-based representations, such as a religious individual who embraces difference and engages openly with others.