Gender equality in media is not just a matter of representation; it’s a cornerstone of democratic societies and a catalyst for social change. The report Breaking Barriers: A whole-of-society approach to gender equality in media development underscores the critical need for a comprehensive strategy to address gender disparities in the media sector.
Despite global commitments, including the 1995 Beijing Platform for Action, significant gender imbalances persist in media organisations worldwide. Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles and media content often perpetuates gender stereotypes. This disparity not only undermines the quality of journalism but also limits the diversity of perspectives essential for informed public discourse.
The report Breaking Barriers: A whole-of-society approach to gender equality in media development emphasises that achieving gender equality in media requires a holistic approach:
- Policy and regulation by implementing and enforcing policies that promote gender equality within media organisations and across the industry,
- On capacity building by lifting the need for training and resources to empower women in media roles, fostering an environment where they can thrive professionally,
- Cultural transformation through encouraging a shift in organisational cultures to embrace diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that gender equality becomes an integral part of media operations.
Media organisations and managers are pivotal in driving this transformation. By adopting gender-sensitive policies, promoting women to leadership positions and ensuring equitable representation in content, media entities can lead by example. This commitment not only enhances the credibility and trustworthiness of media outlets but also aligns with broader societal goals of equality and justice.
“Breaking Barriers” offers actionable strategies and insights for media professionals committed to fostering gender equality. By engaging with this report, media organisations can gain valuable perspectives on overcoming challenges and implementing effective solutions. Access the full report here:
Access the full report on the Digital Scientific Archive, Diva.
The report is written by Fojo, CIMA (Centre for International Media Assistance) and NED (National Endowment for Democracy).
Advancing gender equality in media development is not merely a moral imperative but a strategic necessity. Media organisations and managers have the opportunity – and the responsibility – to lead this change, ensuring that the media landscape reflects the diverse and dynamic societies they serve.
The report was launched at the end of November in thought-provoking panel discussion on the report’s insights, featuring expert Laura Aguirre, Sarah Macharia, Martin Schori and Luba Kassova. Together they delved into the challenges and solutions of a whole-of-society approach to gender equality in media development at every level—from newsroom culture to policy change. Watch the recording of the launch here.
