The role of digital media in protecting Palestinian women's rights

Abstract

The study aimed to identify Palestinian digital media and its role in protecting women's rights, by conducting a study on official Palestinian media, represented by the Palestinian News & Info Agency (WAFA) and Palestine Satellite Channel. The study sample consisted of a random selection of news, reports, and television programs. To achieve the study’s objectives, the survey method was adopted by applying a content analysis tool to these media outlets as part of the broader framework of Palestinian media. Additionally, an in-depth individual interview tool was applied to a purposive sample of (5) specialists and practitioners in the media and community sectors, using a qualitative approach. The results of the study showed that official digital media strives to enhance the protection of Palestinian women's rights and utilizes various modern communication media to support their economic, social, and cultural rights, in accordance with the priorities of published media content and within the framework of agenda-setting theory. Furthermore, it has contributed to strengthening the defense of Palestinian women's rights regarding available economic resources, as media practitioners have focused on covering and promoting these economic rights, thereby helping to establish them as sustainable rights guaranteed by law. The media also paid attention to the legal and social rights of working women to receive fair wages commensurate with the nature of their efforts. In light of the findings, the study recommends the necessity of enhancing networking between human rights institutions, feminist organizations, and government agencies to contribute to drafting laws that ensure the protection of Palestinian women's rights.