GMC hosted two radio programs on Women’s Day to raise awareness and motivate for action against sexual harassment in the media sector in Zimbabwe. The radio broadcasts, held in partnership with national radio station ZiFM and Hevoi FM, a regional station for Masvingo in the south of the country, highlighted the prevalence of sexual harassment and emphasized the need for prompt action to fight it.
The radio programs commenced with discussions on the various forms that sexual harassment takes, with the invited guests sharing personal perspectives and experiences. The guests underscored the detrimental impact of sexual harassment on victims and emphasized that sexual harassment constitutes a grave infringement of human rights, with enduring psychological repercussions for victims.
Panelists on both programs delved into the root causes of sexual harassment in the media sector, attributing it to entrenched patriarchal norms and power dynamics that normalize such behavior. They also highlighted the role of education and awareness in cultivating a culture of respect and equality. Panelists urged listeners to actively engage in combating sexual harassment and to collaborate in establishing an environment where women in media can operate without fear or harassment.
The radio programs are part of broader efforts by GMC to implement tangible measures to combat sexual harassment. Among these strategic initiatives is the establishment of a Female Journalists Protection Fund aimed at providing support and resources to female journalists facing harassment in the media industry.