GENDER PROFILE MONTENEGRO
Media is one of the most powerful tools for shaping public opinion, influencing culture, and amplifying voices. In Montenegro, women are highly present in journalism but still largely absent from the narratives that shape society. While new laws and strategies are pushing toward more balanced and ethical reporting, women remain underrepresented, stereotyped, and sidelined in media content and public discourse.
Montenegro has several laws that are related to the field of media. The Law on Media requires the use of gender-sensitive language and explicitly prohibits discrimination, violence, and hate speech based on gender. The Law on Audiovisual Media Services and the Law on the National Public Broadcaster reinforce these standards by mandating balanced representation, inclusive content, and gender equality in all programming.
The newly adopted Media Strategy of Montenegro (2023–2027) aligns with the National Strategy for Gender Equality and introduces clear benchmarks for promoting gender-responsive reporting. Public broadcasters are now expected to report annually on their gender equality efforts, and there are concrete goals for the use of gender-sensitive language and the number of gender-responsive programs.
Women dominate much of the day-to-day media production in Montenegro. They produce nearly 60% of news content , serve as editors for 89% of central news programs, and host 93% of those same programs. However, their visibility in media content tells a different story. Only 23% of all quoted statements in news programs come from women. In newspapers, television, and online media, just 21% of individuals featured or interviewed are women.
Only 23%
of all quoted statements in news programs come from women.
When women do appear in the news, they are more likely to be portrayed as victims or commentators on “soft” topics like education and health—rarely as political leaders, experts, or decision-makers. A UNDP study shows that women account for only 14.8% of economic coverage, falling well below global averages.
Even in the Code of Ethics for Journalists, gender equality is addressed but not yet deeply embedded in editorial routines. Reporters still struggle to balance public interest with respectful coverage, particularly in stories involving violence or marginalized groups.
To close the gender gap in Montenegrin media, five key steps are essential:
The power of media lies in its ability to shape how we see the world and ourselves. Ensuring that women are visible, heard, and portrayed fairly is essential for a more informed, inclusive, and democratic society.
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