Changing perspectives on gender equality through journalism

At the seminar, Associate Professor, Dr. Do Thi Thu Hang, Head of the Professional Department of the Vietnam Journalists Association, commented: To change public awareness, it is necessary to promote the exploitation of topics and stories related to gender inequality, focusing on changing the perspective of gender equality, so that both men, women and the other genders can develop their maximum potential. The criteria for evaluating press products on gender-sensitive topics are: Honest and accurate reflection of gender sensitivity - no gender bias in the work; implementing the principle of non-discrimination; suitable for the level of information access of the target audience.

Associate Professor, Dr. Do Thi Thu Hang stated that the press plays a very important role in raising public awareness of gender equality and the role of women in social life. Journalists, regardless of their role, have been making important contributions to reflecting on current gender inequality issues and urgent issues of women and children. In addition to the successes and positive aspects of the press, there is still a need for orientations to build a gender-responsive press.

Gender responsibility requirements need to be implemented throughout the entire content creation and production process, and a number of principles need to be followed to increase the frequency and quality of press products on gender and gender equality, suggesting very technical solutions such as how to use gender-responsive images; harmonious use of characters and illustrations, etc.

Commenting on some manifestations of gender bias in current press products, expert Le Van Son, Director of the Center for Gender, Family and Community Development Research, suggested contents to ensure gender sensitivity in the media, including: Not using images that aggravate existing gender biases and gender stereotypes; harmoniously using illustrative images and opinions of men and women in press products; ensuring equal presence of images and opinions of men and women in press products... Along with that, using stories and images to inspire the public about gender equality according to the principle of sharing and cooperation between genders for mutual development...

At the seminar, delegates shared issues related to the role of the press in raising public awareness and promoting gender equality; identifying gender bias in society as reflected in the press and media; discussing gender stereotypes, gender bias, and ways to create gender-sensitive journalistic works.

According to many delegates, gender stereotypes are still "lurking" in media works, causing negative impacts on perceptions, attitudes, and biased assessments of the characteristics, positions, roles, and abilities of men or women. Raising awareness of gender equality in the media is a practical way to support journalists in implementing the 10 articles of the Code of Ethics for Journalists, especially Article 4 with the content: "Upholding the spirit of humanity, respecting human rights. Not infringing on privacy, harming the honor, dignity, and legitimate interests of organizations and individuals".

To change perceptions and behaviors and promote gender equality, press products need to aim to change and eliminate gender prejudices and gender stereotypes, helping to understand and respect gender diversity. There needs to be more press products specializing in men or other genders, mobilizing the participation of all genders to promote gender equality...

Within the framework of the event, the Vietnam Press Museum displayed a historical thematic exhibition on press products addressing gender issues in Vietnam over the past century.