Gender and the Media in the Western Balkans

Abstract

This rapid literature review explores the role that media in the Western Balkans plays in issues of gender (in)equality. After the liberalisation of gender norms during the Yugoslav period (1945–1991), the Wars of Succession (1991–1999) incited resurgent nationalisms and a re-traditionalisation of society. Gender relations have since continued to be largely patriarchal and gender stereotypes have persisted, undermining movement toward gender equality. Neo-liberal philosophies are evident in the emergence and popularity of particular commercial television stations and content. The barriers to strengthening equality within media professions and institutions (or general weaknesses in the media) are discussed under: access to media, media portrayals of gender groups and gender issues, barriers to equality and other weaknesses within the media sector and initiatives that address gender inequalities and other weaknesses in the media. This report was prepared for the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and its partners in support of pro-poor programmes