Gender equality: The role of the media in Yemen and Iraq

Throughout the seminar, participants discussed the difficulties experienced by women in society in general and in the media in particular. The discussions highlighted the complexity and seriousness of the situation in both countries, but also drew attention to local initiatives aimed at empowering women journalists and building their skills.

The debates focused on the situation of women in the media in Yemen and Iraq, the role of the media in improving the image of women and combating stereotypes and, lastly, women's access to decision-making positions in the media in both countries.

Sharing positive experiences

The seminar was also an opportunity to present a number of Syrian and Tunisian experiences, share ideas and discuss concrete actions applicable to Yemen and Iraq.

"We need to see examples and positive experiences to give us the courage we need to continue fighting despite the challenges we face", said Nibras Al-Mamori, President of the Women Journalists Forum.

Widad Al-Badwi, president of the Yemeni Women Journalists Network, also stressed that "the experience of Syrian women who have faced similar problems undoubtedly provides a model for Yemen".

The journalists attending the event provided a comprehensive diagnosis of the gender issue in Yemeni and Iraqi media and offered specific solutions and proposals for the implementation of the upcoming project Women and the Media in Conflict Zones – Yemen and Iraq.
The project, designed based on local needs and realities, will aim to increase the participation of women in Iraqi and Yemeni society and to promote a better understanding of their concerns among the population, in particular through the production and dissemination of relevant content in the media.

All the conclusions and recommendations of the seminar have been set out in a detailed report aimed at steering and informing the implementation of the project, scheduled for March-April 2020.