Advancing Gender Equality in Sports Media: Empowering and Inclusive Reporting Workshops

Overview

In a groundbreaking initiative, UN Women, in a strategic partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), proudly presents Advancing Gender Equality in Sports Media: Empowering and Inclusive Reporting Workshops. This initiative is set against the backdrop of the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games, which aspires to be the first-ever gender-equal Olympics. This critical occasion calls for an evolution in sports media. Will the media rise to the occasion and set a new standard for gender-sensitive and empowering coverage? Join us to be a part of this transformative movement.

Background

Launched by UN Women and the IOC in 2020, the Sports for Generation Equality framework and the subsequent “Leveraging Sports for Gender Equality, Human Rights, and a Life Free of Violence (Bridging Project)”, there has been a substantial effort to use sports as a catalyst for gender equality. These efforts are now converging towards a significant milestone at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, emphasizing the need for a media that reflects and promotes the gender parity seen on the field.

Challenge

Despite the increasing participation of women in sports, a disparity remains in their media representation. This workshop series addresses the critical need to enhance the portrayal of women in sports media, ensuring that it is equal, just, and free of bias.

Workshop Goals

Our workshops are designed to:

1. Educate and train sports journalists and media professionals on gender-sensitive reporting and portrayal in sports.
2. Advocate for equitable media coverage that mirrors the diversity and parity seen in sports, aligning with the historic Paris 2024 Olympics.
3. Develop a network of media professionals committed to promoting gender equality in sports coverage.

The Workshop Agenda

The workshops will cover:

1. State of Play: Recognizing gender-based preconceptions, stereotypes, and the key barriers that women face in sports media.
2. Change the Narrative: The importance of media tone in representing women’s sports and its impact on gender equality.
3. Portrayal: Offering practical suggestions and examples to overcome gender bias in sports media.
4. Content and Editorial: Guidelines on editorial direction, tone of content, and ensuring consistency.
5. Imagery: Capturing and using imagery that reflects diversity and equality.
6. Language and Terminology: Employing bias-free language and adhering to general terminology principles.
7. Coverage and Airtime: Ensuring equal airtime, exposure, and production quality.
8. Interview and Commentary: Shaping the tone of questions and diversifying voices in sports commentary.
9. Taking Action: Utilizing checklists and tracking outputs to measure progress.

Modality and Schedule of Workshops

Registration

Join us to redefine sports media and champion gender equality. Register here before June 3^rd, 2024 to secure your place in this pivotal initiative.

Contact Information

For more information about Gender Equality in and through Sport, please check our website.

For more information about the workshops or if you are interested in organizing a customized workshop for your media organization, please contact Melody Johnston.

This initiative represents a unique opportunity for media professionals to lead in shaping a gender-equal world through sports media. Be a part of this historic change. Register now and contribute to a legacy of equality and empowerment.