Management Strategies for Inclusivity in Media Organizations : a Focus on Gender Bias and Representation in Yle (Finland) and Arise News (Nigeria)

Abstract

This study explores gender representation on media platforms, with a focus on Yle (Finland) and Arise News (Nigeria), using interviews with 20 staff members. The study records gender inequality in presentation. Females were found to constitute only 28% of news stories at Yle, which dropped to 18% in sports coverage and 27% in expert opinion. Arise News records slightly better representation in politics and business related publications. The institutions both exhibit gender imbalances in technical and leadership positions with very little transparency in monitoring the progress of equalization. The report outlines cultural as well as structural challenges: Yle is aware of the progressive Finnish policy but has no representation in largely male professions, while Arise News navigates its way through Nigerian patriarchal society. Suggestions are to increase profiles of women among underrepresented careers, increase openness in data availability, and initiate inclusive policy. The research identifies the role of the media in perpetuating gendered social norms in society and demands pragmatic action towards attaining balance representation worldwide.