Women’s professional presence in media is low: Speakers
Speakers, at a gender-related event, today said that women’s professional presence in the media is low. Their presence in top positions is even lower, they said, adding that even, women are not always treated sensitively at every level in the media. The speakers came up with these remarks at the 'Gender Commitment Charter for the News Media' event, organized by the Media and Resources Development Initiative (MRDI) at The Daily Star Bhaban in the capital.
The speakers said that gender equality must be ensured in the media and gender discrimination in the media must be eliminated. In the case of women, appointments must be made based on merit and skills, they said, adding that the overall security must be provided in all areas for women. Earlier, Swedish Ambassador to Bangladesh Nicolas Weeks inaugurated the ‘Gender Commitment Charter for the News Media’ event as the chief guest while MRDI Executive Director Hasibur Rahman conducted it.
Speaking on the occasion, Swedish ambassador said media always highlights different aspects of the society. About women's participation at workplaces, he said it is essential for democracy to portray women and men equally. He further said that the media undoubtedly has an important role to play in promoting democracy and ensuring freedom of expression regardless of gender.
A smooth environment must be created in the media irrespective of gender, he said, adding that women's participation in policy-making in the media must be further increased. Prothom Alo Executive Editor Sajjad Sharif gave welcome speech in the event, saying this ‘Gender Commitment Charter for the News Media’ has been made to create a fair and equal environment for all genders, including women. He urged media organizations to create their own policies based on this Gender Commitment Charter.
Dhaka University's Department of Mass Communication and Journalism Professor and Head of the Gender Charter Working Group Dr Geetiara Nasreen said women’s participation in the media is relatively low and therefore, specific and clear policies are needed in the media to express the views of all genders. Media Reform Commission Chief and veteran journalist Kamal Ahmed underscored the need for holding pragmatic discussions with all stakeholders for the successful implementation of the gender related charter.
Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) Director General Faruk Wasif said that PIB is ready to provide gender commitment certificates and gender related training to people concerned once a new media outlet enters the market. Senior News Editor of Channel i Mir Mashruruzzaman Rony, Executive Director of Channel 24 Talat Mamun and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jamuna Television Fahim Ahmed also spoke, among others.
