Shaping Perceptions: MEDIA INFLUENCE ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION DURING AND BEYOND ELECTIONS IN LEBANON

The media in Lebanon plays a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions of women’s political participation. While media platforms have the potential to highlight women’s contributions to politics and challenge patriarchal norms, they often reinforce gender stereotypes, marginalize female political figures, and amplify violence against women in politics (VAWP). This report examines how traditional media and social media platforms in Lebanon influence women’s engagement in politics, focusing on the challenges posed by biased representation, online violence, and limited media visibility. Additionally, the report discusses structural issues such as biased media environments and weak oversight of electoral law enforcement that affect fairness in political campaigning, particularly for women, as well as recommended amendments to the legal framework —particularly in areas such as penalties for violations, procedural timelines, and equitable media access provisions—to address systemic barriers to women’s political participation.