How the media approach rape and consent

Gender-based violence is one of the most serious forms of human rights violation, with profound individual and societal consequences. In this context, the media play a key role as a platform for informing, educating and raising public awareness, while bearing a great responsibility in how they report on cases of gender-based violence. The media have the power to shape public opinion, to normalize or break gender stereotypes and to contribute to creating a society that recognizes and combats the various forms of gender-based violence. Inadequate reporting on cases of gender-based violence, especially sexual violence, can result in serious consequences for victims, such as double victimization, a process in which media attention further and repeatedly traumatizes the victim.
Sensationalist language, no respect for people’s privacy, and disregard for ethical standards when reporting on sensitive cases can cause long-lasting psychological and social consequences. Instead of being allies in the fight against violence, the media often unwittingly become part of the problem, feeding stereotypes and a culture of tolerating and normalizing violence.