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July 19, 2025 – Bahrain –
Bahraini journalist Fatima Al‑Yaqoub, speaking at an international panel organised by the World Forum for Proximity of Islamic Schools of Thought, emphasised that women in media must serve as genuine symbols of resistance rather than ornamental figures. Addressing the panel titled “Media: An Effective Tool for Unity and Resistance,” she underscored the importance of media as a “fourth power” in societal discourse and warned against letting adversaries dominate this sphere.
Al‑Yaqoub referred to historical examples such as the U.S. Creel Committee of 1916 to illustrate how the media has been used to distort facts and cultures. She praised the role of new Palestinian media in exposing Western misrepresentations of the Palestinian plight. Highlighting the cost of truth-telling, she noted that 227 Palestinian journalists have been killed in recent years while engaged in media work.
Criticising certain Arab media formats, she argued that in many outlets linked to resistance movements, women wearing Islamic attire are often confined to religious coverage and excluded from political or cultural roles—contradicting the Islamic Republic of Iran’s directives. She affirmed that the hijab has transformed from a stereotyped symbol into one of freedom and dignity, and called for reinforcing this positive image. Additionally, Al‑Yaqoub highlighted the need for greater institutional support for women in media, who often juggle professional roles with family responsibilities.
Her remarks stress that women journalists should be empowered to lead resistance through the media, not just appear in it. The message is a call for gender-inclusive media practices and stronger recognition of women’s roles in shaping public narratives across the region.
References –
https://en.abna24.com/news/1710074/Bahraini-journalist-Women-in-media-should-be-true-symbols-of
