Charvak, Uzbekistan – 27-28 September 2024: In an effort to promote gender equality in media coverage and strengthen the capacity of media professionals, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in collaboration with the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media, Committee on Family Affairs and Women  and the British Embassy in Tashkent, organized a media training titled “Creating Gender-Sensitive Content.” The two-day workshop, held at the Panoramic Spa Hotel in Charvak, Tashkent region, Uzbekistan gathered journalists, editors-in-chief, bloggers, and media professionals to deepen their understanding of gender-sensitive reporting and its importance in shaping public perceptions.

This training comes as part of a broader initiative to enhance gender equality in Uzbekistan's media landscape. The agenda covered a range of critical topics, including the legal framework of Uzbekistan on gender issues, and the need to increase the capacity of media professionals in preparing gender-sensitive and non-discriminatory journalistic materials. Participants studied the main types and forms of violence against women, examining their impact on women's lives, and engaged in discussions, interactive presentations, and group exercises that built their skills in covering topics of oppression and violence with sensitivity and fairness. Through this, the workshop aimed to eliminate harmful gender stereotypes and promote more accurate and respectful media portrayals of women.

Dilora Ganieva, UNFPA Programme Specialist on Gender Issues, emphasized the vital role that media plays in shaping societal attitudes towards gender. "The media has a unique power to influence perceptions. By ensuring that the content we produce is gender-sensitive, we are not only promoting equality but also protecting the rights of women and girls across Uzbekistan," said Ganieva.

The training also provided participants with practical tools and techniques for conducting sensitive interviews, particularly with survivors of violence. As part of the workshop, journalists practiced responsible interviewing techniques in simulated scenarios designed to prepare them for real-life reporting on gender-based violence.

Jakhongir Azimov, Head of the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media, underlined the significance of such training for media professionals. "As we work to improve the standards of journalism in Uzbekistan, it is essential that the media reflects the diversity and equality of our society. This training equips our journalists with the necessary tools to report fairly and accurately on gender issues," stated Azimov.

Over the course of the two days, participants discussed and reviewed the existing national legal framework related to gender equality and gender-based violence. Sessions explored how the portrayal of women in media can either reinforce harmful stereotypes or contribute to breaking down barriers to gender equality.

This project and the materials have been funded by UK International Development from the UK government; however, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK government’s official policies.