Topic 2 The role of digital media/tools in reducing the gender gap

Digital media can be both helpful and hurmful depending on how an individual uses them. Digital media also affects the way people form their identities, social norms, and values in relation to gender.

Children from a young age are influenced by the gendered stereotypes that are being presented to them by the media, among others. Gender inequality exists in media through the under-representation and misrepresentation of woman.

Stereotypes about women are mainly based on their physical appearance, clothing, and age, while those of men have mainly to do with their behaviour, ideas and beliefs.

On the other hand, because of the power that media hold, they can play and influential role on how people form their identities by showcasing a variety of roles and behaviours of people of all gender. They could achieve that by raising awareness about issues on gender rights and equality and by including more voices and perspectives of women. They could adopt a gender-sensitive reporting which would accurately mirror societies outlook and reflect the world as seen by the eyes of all genders.

The power of media can be seen through the result of the extended use of social media. Many female victims around the world had the opportunity to share their experiences of violence with other victims, creating a space to exchange knowledge and information on their rights, legal processes and welfare services and contributing gradually to gender equality.