Thought Leadership

In celebrating the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, the United Nations has challenged us to improve 'pathways to decent work for women'. In the media, one would hope that such issues lay behind us. However, when we turn our gaze to journalism, we see stark challenges facing women across the UK.

Our research paints a bleak picture: the media world remains a tough one for women, particularly amongst editors. Newspapers are male-dominated: there are currently 3 male journalists to each female. While many young women enter journalism, the inflexible nature of the industry makes career progression challenging, especially for those starting families.

While female mentors are welcomed, their scarcity in senior roles leaves young female journalists at a significant disadvantage.

The data in 'A-Gendered Press speaks volumes, and was reinforced by in-depth interviews with nine UK female journalists. They described the difficulties they had faced in advancing their careers and in working in male dominated areas such as news and business.

Download the full 'A Gendered Press' Report