The media sector in Bangladesh has undergone massive changes in the last two decades. The field of journalism has expanded greatly today due to technological advancements, the spread of online platforms, and the interest of young people. In line with these changes, the participation of women journalists has also increased. They are reporting in the field, running newsrooms, running to the scene with cameras, or exposing the dark side of society through investigative reporting. But despite this progress, their path is still not smooth. Various social, organizational, and psychological barriers complicate the progress of women’s journalism. Yet, at the same time, it is also opening the door to new possibilities, which makes the future of women’s journalism promising.
Bangladeshi society is still deeply patriarchal. Journalism is a profession that lacks time-management, is risky, and requires constant fieldwork. Many in the family believe that this type of work is not suitable for women. Night duty, reporting in remote areas, covering political events, or collecting crime news are seen as ‘risky’ or ‘unwanted’ for women. As a result, many talented women who want to become journalists turn away from the profession due to family or societal pressure. And those who stay often have to prove their capabilities over and over again. These psychological barriers in society are so subtle and deep that they become the biggest invisible obstacle to women’s journalism.
The internal structure of the newsroom is also no less challenging. Although many media organizations talk about a women-friendly environment, in reality, women often do not get equal opportunities. Important or risky assignments are handed over to men and women are limited to light reporting. In many places, women are not sent to political, crime or investigative bits, although their participation in these areas is important. Even doing the same work, there is often a salary disparity, and opportunities for advancement are also limited. The number of women in leadership is very low—women cannot reach the news editor, chief reporter or management level, mainly due to a kind of invisible discrimination that has been going on for a long time. This discrimination not only affects women journalists, but also narrows the multidimensionality of the media. Because the lack of a female perspective means that a large part of news coverage remains incomplete.
Sexual harassment in the workplace is another acute challenge for women journalists. Many women journalists face inappropriate comments, unwanted glances, attempts at physical contact or abuse of power by seniors while working in the newsroom or in the field. Unfortunately, most of the time, the victims are hesitant to complain because it could jeopardize their jobs, they are afraid of being labeled as a ‘troublemaker’ at work, or even if complaints are registered, punishment is not very common. Women face another type of risk while working in the field, especially at political rallies, crime scenes or crowded areas, where insults, shoving or physical harassment can occur suddenly. Such incidents increase the psychological stress of women journalists and reduce their confidence in their professional safety.
The digital age has created new opportunities for women journalists, but it has also increased new risks. Online harassment of women is a serious problem today. Women journalists in particular are targeted after covering political reports, human rights writings, and reports on violence against women. Derogatory comments, character assassination, sending obscene messages to inboxes, or photo distortions against them on social media have become very common. This has caused many women to break down mentally, reduce their activity on social media, or withdraw. Although digital harassment is not physical, its effects are deep and long-lasting, damaging professional confidence.
On the other hand, health and mental stress are a big reality for women journalists. The challenges of journalism, such as deadline-driven work, irregular schedules, travel, and night duty, are the same for women as for men. But in the case of women, this is compounded by the additional pressure of managing a family, which is known as the ‘double burden’. Many women work extra hard to prove themselves, but are criticized for being ‘ambitious’. On the other hand, if they adjust their work according to their convenience, they are called ‘inappropriate’. This double assessment seriously affects the mental health of women journalists.
Amidst all the challenges, a new horizon is now being created for women’s journalism. Awareness about women’s empowerment in society is much higher than before. Families are encouraging girls to pursue careers, and media houses are also giving importance to women’s participation. Girls are now studying journalism and mass communication in many universities, taking training, getting scholarships, and taking advantage of international opportunities. This is strengthening women’s skills, confidence, and career plans.
There is now a clear understanding at various levels of the media that news is incomplete without women. Women’s perspectives, sensitivity, and human understanding deepen news. Women are naturally more connected to women’s reporting, children, health, family, and human rights, but today women have proven their worth in all areas – economics, politics, science, environment, crime. Many newsrooms are now specifically hiring women reporters. This not only increases the diversity of journalism, but also increases overall credibility.
Digital platforms have created a new world for women. Through online news portals, YouTube, Facebook pages, podcasts, women are able to create their own space. Those who cannot or do not want to work much in the field are also making a strong impact by writing documentaries, data journalism, opinion reports or analytical writing. An independent and alternative platform has been created for young women journalists, which is breaking old stereotypes.
Besides, opportunities for various international fellowships, leadership training, and safety training are now increasing for women journalists. As a result of these opportunities, they are getting the courage and preparation to work not only within the country but also at the international level. The number of female editors, female department heads, or show anchors is also increasing in some media houses. The presence of this leadership is creating role models for future young women and making the profession women-friendly.
Finally, women’s journalism has become an essential part of the media in Bangladesh. The challenges include social mentality, sexual harassment, online violence, discrimination, and psychological stress. However, the potential is even greater due to changes in society, acceptance in families, opportunities for digital media, advancement in women’s education, and broadening avenues for professional development. Women’s journalism is not just about women’s progress, it is also about improving the quality of the media and social justice. The more women journalists participate, the more humane, egalitarian, and representative the media will be, where every experience, every story, and every perspective will be given equal importance.
