Constructing collective identities and solidarity in premiers’ early speeches on COVID-19: a global perspective

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a unique global experience, arousing both exclusionary nationalistic and inclusionary responses of solidarity. This article aims to explore the discursive linguistic means by which pandemic, as macro-event, been translated into local micro-events. analysis studies through initial statements 29 leading political actors across four continents. aim is examine constructions solidarity nationalism social representation inclusion/exclusion in-, out-, affiliated groups. comparative based on theoretical methodological framework socio-cognitive approach critical discourse informed argumentation theory studies. results our suggest that leaders have constructed virus main outgroup metaphors pandemic-as-war pandemic-as-movement entered national space. Faced with this threat, these speeches discursively nation-as-a-team in-group prioritized (1) vertical type nationhood according governmental plans; (2) against rule-breakers; (3) horizontal intergenerational among family members, (4) transnational It not chance world stands relevant group needs forcibly collaborate in order face outgroup, itself. A major consensus found constructing out-group. In contrast, in-groups their affiliates display greater variation, depending upon prevalent practices context within different countries.