Annotation 1_Social media trivialization of the increasing participation of women in politics in Ethiopia

Kassa, B. E., & Sarikakis, K. (2019). Social media trivialization of the increasing participation of women in politics in Ethiopia. Journal of African Media Studies, 11(1), 21-33.

Overview: Women politicians in Ethiopia face less coverage and are often described in gendered, sexualized, sex-stereotyped, or negative terms. Media’s contribution to women’s political advancement is crucial for Ethiopia’s political reform, but it often plays a sabotaging role in promoting women’s participation.The paper examines media representation challenges to women’s political leadership and its impact on public perception and ambition. It also explores the potential contribution of the media to increased women’s participation in politics. 

Methodology: The study uses a literature review of media representation of women in politics, but lacks studies on media representation in Ethiopia. A sample of Facebook texts, teasing the appointment of the first woman president and a 50% cabinet, was analyzed to assess gender stereotypes in social media discourses. The analyzed texts, though small in size, can be indicative of how social media platforms are used to misrepresent the increasing participation of women politicians in Ethiopia.

Findings: Social media has significantly impacted the way politicians interact with citizens, particularly in politics. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have transformed how politicians interact with citizens, allowing women to be the producers of their own narratives. This allows women to be heard and seen better than mainstream media, and social media offers immediate action for women to express their opinions on current matters. However, social media also brings new risks for women in politics, with almost 50% of respondents receiving insulting or threatening comments about their ability or role. 

Conclusion:  This paper highlights the impact of media representations of women politicians on patriarchal society and social media, which may discourage women from entering politics. Overall, social media has provided a platform for women politicians to voice their needs and concerns, but it has also become a site where they are constantly harassed and trivialized.