When a society sees women primarily as victims rather than leaders, the stories told on our screens help shape that reality. According to Geo News, the media outlet has officially joined forces with UN Women Pakistan through the UN Women Global Media Compact to reshape how women and girls are represented in public discourse.

Geo News reported that the partnership is an invitation-based, pro bono alliance designed to integrate gender equality into editorial practices, reporting, and public engagement. According to an official statement cited by Geo News, the collaboration seeks to promote women and girls’ rights, challenge gender stereotypes, and amplify women's leadership.

Fahmida Iqbal Khan, Deputy Country Representative of UN Women in Pakistan, stated via Geo News that media coverage often depicts women and girls mainly as victims rather than economists, judges, legislators, or entrepreneurs, which reinforces harmful norms. She added that by joining the Media Compact, Geo News is committing to change that picture and foster a media environment where women and girls are represented with dignity, fairness, and respect.

Azhar Abbas, Managing Director of Geo News, stated as reported by his network that fair and meaningful representation of women and girls is fundamental to responsible journalism. He noted that the network intends to strengthen gender-responsive editorial practices, broaden the range of women experts and decision-makers featured in coverage, and ensure context and dignity.

Background

According to Geo News, the UN Women Global Media Compact brings together media organisations committed to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment through responsible, inclusive editorial decisions and gender-responsive journalism. Geo News stated that over the years, it has used its reach to bring social issues into national conversation, amplify underrepresented voices, and highlight women's contributions across different fields.

Why it matters

According to the statements provided by Geo News, the way media chooses to cover and invite speakers shapes how society views women and girls. Integrating gender-responsive editorial practices and featuring a broader range of women experts and decision-makers aims to address discrimination, inequality, and harmful stereotypes in public awareness.