She Changes News Media : Gender representation & portrayal in news coverage of COP26 leadership team

Abstract: The underrepresentation and the stereotypical portrayal of women in the news media is an enduring matter. This thesis examines the gender representation and portrayal in news coverage of the underrepresentation of women at the United Nations’ 26th Conference of Parties (COP26). As frame of reference, the theories watchdog journalism, representation, feminist media, and homophily are used. The study conducts a manual content analysis on news reports and news tweets concerning the topic. The analysis focuses on four categories of women; reporters, sources, women who advocate for better representation at COP26, and women in relation to climate change. Previous research shows that women are underrepresented as reporters and sources in political news. However, this study concludes that women are highly represented in the news coverage of this topic, while men are almost totally absent. Furthermore, the study concludes that the women in the stories are portrayed in stereotypical ways. Women’s role as celebrities is highlighted and thereby other roles occupied by women are downplayed. Also, the stereotypical portrayals of women as victims and saviours in relation to climate change impacts are present in the analysed news reports and tweets. Further research is suggested in gender representation in media coverage of gender inequal representation.