Journalists should report the world as it is. Women make up half the population but are often ignored. Learn how to improve accuracy through gender equality.
Addressing gender imbalance in the news business requires a multifaceted approach from journalists, combining personal initiative with essential systemic change.
The following guide is based on the article Gender equality in the media, which we suggest you read before using the checklist below.
- [ ] Learn the difference between sex and gender: Understand that sex refers to biological differences, while gender refers to how society expects men and women to behave. Recognise that these social roles can change.
- [ ] Aim for an equal spread of voices: Make an effort to ensure that half of the people you interview or quote in your stories are women. This ensures your reporting reflects the real world.
- [ ] Search for female experts: Do not just rely on the same male sources. Actively look for women who are specialists in their fields, such as scientists, doctors, or business leaders. See: Developing and handling news sources.
- [ ] Redefine what an expert is: Remember that expertise does not always come from a university degree. Women often gain deep knowledge through unpaid work or community roles; value this experience in your reporting.
- [ ] Challenge common stereotypes: Avoid portraying women only as victims, parents, or secondary characters. Show them as leaders, thinkers, and independent individuals.
- [ ] Check your interview questions: Ensure you ask female professionals the same types of questions you would ask men. Avoid asking women how they balance work and family life unless you ask men the same thing. See: An introduction to interviewing.
- [ ] Use gender-neutral language: Choose words that include everyone. Use terms like camera operator instead of cameraman, or police officer instead of policeman. This avoids the assumption that only men do certain jobs. See: Diversity in journalism.
- [ ] Analyse your visual choices: When filming or taking photographs, ensure you treat men and women with the same level of respect. Do not use camera angles or framing that might make one gender appear weaker than the other.
- [ ] Promote safety and support: Be aware that female journalists often face more online harassment. Work with your team to create a safe environment and support colleagues who are targeted.
- [ ] Commit to regular training: Gender equality is a core value of journalism. Attend workshops and stay updated on how to spot and fix hidden biases in your own work. See: Unconscious bias and Identifying training needs for journalists
Summary
Gender equality in the media is not just about fairness; it is about accuracy and good business. By including more diverse voices, you make your stories more interesting and reach a wider audience. Following these steps is a vital part of your journey toward journalistic excellence. Using inclusive language and a wide range of sources will help you build trust with your audience and report the truth more effectively.