Investing in women: an analysis of the state of women journalists in Nepal
MEDIA ACTION NEPAL
KATHMANDU/ March 8: Despite remarkable growth of women journalists, newsrooms in corporate media houses of Nepal remain predominantly male-dominated, with owners exhibiting reluctance to address the imperative of fostering inclusive environments. This persistent disparity stifles the leadership potential of women within the media landscape, hindering their equitable representation and advancement.
Let’s take a moment to talk about women’s leadership in the media, where we believe everyone deserves a meaningful seat at the table.
The role of women journalists in Nepal stands as an essential indicator of societal progress and the challenges that persist within the media industry. Our observations show that the state of women journalists in Nepal reflects a complex embroidery of advancements and persistent barriers. Amidst a mushrooming media landscape, characterized by a diversity of voices and perspectives, women journalists navigate a myriad of professional hurdles, ranging from gender bias and unequal opportunities to workplace harassment. As Nepal strives for a more inclusive and equitable society, understanding the experiences and contributions of women journalists is essential for fostering media environments that reflect the diverse tapestry of Nepali society.
Empowering women to take the lead in media organizations can contribute to the creation of content that goes beyond traditional narratives. One of the significant impacts of having women in leadership roles within the media is the increased focus on women’s issues. Women leaders are more likely to prioritize and advocate for coverage of topics that directly affect women, children and LGBTIQ+ issues such as reproductive rights, workplace equality, gender-based violence, women’s health and mental health.
This shift in focus can lead to a more understanding of these issues and contribute to bring up empathy and support for women’s rights. Gender equality in the media industry is not just about representation; it also involves addressing systemic challenges that hinder women’s progress. By placing women in leadership positions, media organizations can actively work towards dismantling gender-based discrimination, ensuring equal pay, and providing opportunities for career growth.
By placing women in leadership positions, media organizations can actively work towards dismantling gender-based discrimination, ensuring equal pay, and providing opportunities for career growth.
A 2021 study by Media Action Nepal emphasized the urgent need for female journalists to occupy decision-making roles within media organizations. The study identified a mere 0.30 percent of news items with bylines from female journalists out of a sample of 21,919 news items. This alarming statistic underscores the fundamentals for media outlets to formulate gender policies that ensure fair participation for women from entry to promotion and job upgrades. This study further reveals that there is inadequate investment in creating gender-friendly workplaces within media outlets. It highlights a tendency to focus on victims in gender-based crime reporting, often sensationalizing their pain for “viral” content rather than prioritizing investigations and justice. Gender underrepresentation persists in media content, with women and gender minorities’ issues deemed “not newsworthy.” To combat institutional discrimination, the study suggests for editor and media owner participation in training, fostering a more inclusive media landscape.
Contributing a chapter (2021) for the IGI Global Handbook of Research on Discrimination, Gender Disparity, and Safety Risks in Journalism, our chair Laxman Datt Pant disclosed that obstacles exposed to women journalists in Nepal have severe destructive consequences to ensure independent and inclusive media, journalistic integrity, gender equality and the just society. This study calls on stakeholders-especially male journalists and editorial chiefs across all types of media outlets remain sensitive on gender issues and the safety of women journalists.
It’s time to break down these barriers! And, Nepali media demands more diverse faces in decision-making positions to make a revolutionary change in the media sector. It’s about creating a transparent recruitment policy with a provision to engage women journalists, especially those from underrepresented groups, the chance to lead and make a difference. Inspiring Inclusion in media means embracing the unique viewpoints of women from all walks of life. It’s not just about equality, it’s about recognizing the strength that comes from differences. This International Women’s Day, let’s amplify the voices of women in the media. Share their stories, celebrate their achievements, and stand together for a more inclusive future. By embracing diversity and empowering women journalists to lead newsrooms.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building inclusive newsrooms where the contributions of women journalists are recognized, celebrated, and nurtured.
To address these disparities, media houses must prioritize gender sensitivity in their editorial policies. The call for increased representation extends not only to women but also to sexual and gender minorities, who face exclusion, harassment, and neglect based on their sexual orientations.
Happy international women’s day !
#InspireInclusion #IWD2024 #WomenInMedia #womensinmedialeadership