ARDA, UN Women train journalists on reporting female political representation

In a bid to advance women representation, ARDA Development Communications in partnership with UN Women have trained journalists on the importance of reporting female participation in politics for societal development.

The training which held in Lagos, themed, Advance: Women in Political participation (AWPP) stressed the need for greater inclusion of women in political leadership and also the role of the media in influencing women’s representation in political leadership.

Managing Partner, WGC co, Mrs.JesudunsinOlusanya, said that there are a lot of legal frameworks in Nigeria that are favorable to women but implementation remains the issue.
Stating however that there is growing awareness and advocacy for women participation in politics as the last election saw more women seek such positions, she said that continued advocacy and community involvement is essential to amplify women voices and representation.

Emphasising that the media helps in shaping public perspective, she urged practitioners to continuously include women representation and narrative while covering politics and to keep challenging stereotypes.

“The media plays a great role in shaping the perception of the public and public discourse can help create emphasis on women’s involvement in political leadership, she said.
According to Olusanya, women also face violence in the political sector, visible through physical violence and aggression, which has affected women in power, and created a barrier in taking up leadership positions.

“Violence against women is a very serious issue that affects women’s political participation, it includes physical, psychological violence, intimidation and sexual harassment. These factors affect women’s desire to participate in political leadership,” she added.

Participants were also trained on the issue of gender sensitivity and awareness, alongside unconscious bias and stereotypes in media, and its effect on women’s participation in Politics.

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