After parity. A mixed methods study on gender bias in the  volume of media coverage of electoral campaigns

Frida V. Rodelo

doi:10.29105/rcp1-4

Authors

Frida V. Rodelo Universidad de Guadalajara https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7547-2446

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29105/rcp1-4

Keywords:

gender discrimination, broadcasting programmes, elections, women in politics

Abstract

The absence of gender bias in the media coverage of political campaigns is one of the elements of the much sought after political participation of women. In this respect, Mexico is an interesting case as its legal framework has transitioned in a few years to include a mandated parity principle. In this study, we examine the relationship between the volume of coverage and gender to determine if there were gender differences in the radio coverage of local elections in Mexico (2012-2015). Findings show lower average shares of coverage for women after the increase in female candidates mandated by the parity principle. Semi-structured interviews conducted with journalists and former candidates suggest that the gender bias may reflect adverse attitudes towards female newcomers benefitted by the parity law, and gender differences in campaign resources, candidate placement criteria, and candidates’ political experience.

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Author Biography

Frida V. Rodelo, Universidad de Guadalajara

Doctora en Ciencias Sociales por la Universidad de Guadalajara. Actualmente es profesora titular en la Universidad de Guadalajara. Hace investigación académica sobre prácticas y coberturas periodísticas. Estuvo en 2010 en Timor Oriental colaborando con el Centro Internacional para Periodistas. En 2009 el Consejo Nacional para la Enseñanza y la Investigación de las Ciencias de la Comunicación (Coneicc) le otorgó el premio a la mejor tesis de maestría sobre Comunicación. Forma parte del Sistema Nacional de Investigadores (2017-2019). Coordinó el monitoreo de radio y televisión de la cobertura electoral en Jalisco. Es integrante de la Asociación Mexicana de Derecho a la Información Capítulo Jalisco y la Asociación Mexicana de Investigadores de la Comunicación.

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