Gender representation of the anti-globalisation movement in the alternative media

Abstract

The article focuses on the visual representation of men and women in the anti-globalisation movement in the alternative media. Two specific occasions are addressed: the demonstrations in Prague (2000) and Genoa (2001). Semiotic and content analyses are applied in a comparison of British and Czech alternative magazines. A brief history of the anti-globalisation movement, theories of alternative media, and gender representation in media is provided. The research shows that the anti-globalisation struggle is represented as gendered, and traditional gender roles are reproduced in the alternative media. Fewer women than men are represented in the media coverage, and women and men are shown performing different activities. Women are mostly associated with non-violent and creative actions, while men are more often depicted as fighters. Violent protest is considered more effective and important; male tactics are the norm. The British and Czech media do not differ significantly in terms of how men and women at the demonstrations or in the movement are represented. © Sociologický ústav AV ČR, Praha 2004.