How has the media framed the formalisation of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM)?

Drawing on frame theory as a lens, we analyse media reports published between 2010 and 2020 to explore how the Ghanaian press has, over the years, sought to frame the need for the formalisation of ASM. Our analysis suggests the media framing of ASM formalisation plays out along five lines of attention: legal/illegal activities, health, safety and security concerns, environmental degradation, socio-economic impact (i.e. job creation and economy), and regulations and governance regimes. Emphasising the importance of ASM to livelihoods while acknowledging its intractable and often detrimental impact on the natural environment, our findings suggest that excessive focus on its negative consequences may pose a serious threat to the much-needed efforts to formalise ASM and foster its long-term sustainability. The results advance our understanding of how media narration and selective presentation not only shape narratives but also influence public opinion and policy formulation about the formalisation of ASM.