Makanati

Goals

To improve the skills of the media in relation to concepts and issues associated with gender equality and women’s rights in Iraq and Yemen.

627 K

24months

220Trained professionnals

A project

Supported by

In partnership with

Project timeline

February 2020 February 2022

This project is finished

Presentation

Yemen and Iraq are currently facing severe security instability, which has significantly affected the circumstances of the population, and of women in particular, who are increasingly marginalised and exposed to new threats. Moreover, journalism as practised in both countries remains a male-dominated environment. This is reflected not only in the absence of women in decision-making positions, but also in how information is covered by the media.

The Makanati project (which means "my place" in Arabic) promotes greater participation of women in Iraqi and Yemeni society and a better understanding of their concerns by the population, particularly through the production and dissemination of content about them. It also seeks to raise awareness among journalists and future journalists regarding gender equality and women's rights.

Finally, it contributes to improving the professional skills of female journalists in order to promote their access to decision-making positions.

“This training is complementary to my university studies. The techniques learned will allow me to build a solid foundation for my future as a journalist.”

Mariam Al Shareefi, student at Alfarahidi University in Baghdad (Iraq)

Project beneficiaries

Around 220 male and female journalists, as well as female journalism students, from Iraq and Yemen.

Project manager

Sarah FILALI

Files to download

Makanati

Actions

Awareness of the importance of women’s rights and gender equality

Organisation of debates and a seminar to raise awareness of these issues with civil society stakeholders.
Training courses dedicated to these issues, for female journalism students and journalists, in order to develop a common methodology of journalistic coverage.
Introduction of advocacy initiatives lobbying the authorities in Iraq.

Improving the professional skills of female journalists and students in Iraq and Yemen

Completion of an inventory of the positions held by women, with researchers based in both countries.
Strengthening professional networks at national and regional level.
Training courses on professional and leadership abilities.

Support for the production of media content covering the challenges faced by women, women’s rights issues and gender equality

Launch of a specific radio programme/broadcast or creation of web media managed by female journalists who are beneficiaries of the project.
Support for the production of media content focusing on these issues.