International Workshop on Women’s Representation in Media Urges Fight Against Violence
The ‘International Workshop on Women’s Representation in Media,’ held at ATO Congresium with the support of the Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, brought together key figures to address the crucial issue of women’s portrayal in the media. Among the attendees were RTÜK President Ebubekir Şahin, Chair of the Turkish Parliament’s Committee on Gender Equality Çiğdem Erdoğan, President of the Audiovisual Media Authority of Albania Armela Krasniqi, and RTÜK member Deniz Güçer. The workshop commenced with a video message from Emine Erdoğan, the wife of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, emphasizing the importance of strong female representation in the media.
RTÜK Emphasizes Social Responsibility in Combating Violence Against Women
RTÜK President Ebubekir Şahin highlighted the importance of media’s social responsibility in combating violence against women, especially as 2025 has been declared the ‘Year of the Family.’ He stressed that issues related to family, children, youth, and women are of utmost importance to RTÜK and that the media plays a critical role in upholding these values. Şahin noted that RTÜK has evolved beyond being a mere regulatory body, fostering continuous collaboration with broadcasting institutions to ensure the media fulfills its societal responsibilities effectively.
Media Urged to Abandon Negative Stereotypes in the Fight Against Violence
In the fight against violence against women, RTÜK President Ebubekir Şahin underscored the shared responsibility of the media, stating that a holistic approach is essential. He praised the support received from academics and representatives of civil society organizations in this endeavor. Moving forward, he called on the media to portray women in empowering and positive terms, steering away from negative stereotypes and harmful narratives that perpetuate violence.
Preparing Ethical Guidelines for Daytime Programs
As part of Turkey’s ‘Vision of the Century,’ RTÜK is pioneering efforts to set ethical standards in media through the ‘Ethical Principles for Combating Violence Against Women in the Media.’ Emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards content that normalizes violence, Şahin highlighted the importance of shifting the focus from the victim to the perpetrator in reporting on violence against women. Additionally, he announced the development of ethical guidelines for daytime programs to prevent the normalization and promotion of violence.
Appreciation for Workshop Participants
RTÜK member Deniz Güçer expressed gratitude to the participants of the workshop, acknowledging the collaborative efforts that have shaped the event over the past two years. She emphasized the multifaceted approach taken in addressing issues related to women’s representation in the media, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss how women can be portrayed more ethically and powerfully in the media.
In conclusion, the ‘International Workshop on Women’s Representation in Media’ underscored the critical role of the media in shaping perceptions and promoting gender equality. By fostering collaboration and upholding ethical standards, stakeholders aim to create a media landscape that empowers women and combats violence effectively.
