Disability Representation in Bangladeshi Media: A Study on Inclusion in Content and Organizational Practices
UNESCO (2025), 26 pp.
"The study emphasizes the vital role of Bangladeshi media in promoting inclusion and equality for persons with disabilities (PWDs). While progress has been made, gaps in representation, accessibility, and workplace inclusion remain. Key priorities include adopting inclusive formats like sign language and subtitles, showcasing diverse and gender-equal portrayals, and fostering inclusive workplaces with proper accommodations. Collaborating with disability organizations and monitoring practices can further ensure sensitivity and accountability. By embracing these measures, media can help reduce stigma, uphold the dignity of PWDs, and create a more inclusive society." (The way forward, page 26)
"This study provides important insights into how persons with disabilities (PWDs) are portrayed in Bangladeshi media, focusing on print, TV, and online platforms. While some progress has been made, key challenges and gaps remain:
Representation Gaps: Coverage of disability-related topics has increased but is often limited to specific events or observance days. Many stories lack depth and focus on sympathy rather than empowerment. This limits a rights-based narrative that highlights the achievements and abilities of PWDs.
Media Practices: Disability-related content is underrepresented compared to mainstream topics like politics or entertainment. Such news is often placed on less prominent pages or in secondary TV segments. Limited resources and attention from media management further reduce the impact of reporting on disability issues.
Workplace Inclusion: Some media organizations have begun including employees with disabilities, especially in digital roles. However, challenges like inaccessible workplaces, lack of proper support, and insufficient training continue to create barriers.
Content Analysis: The tone of reporting is generally neutral to positive, with respectful visual representation. However, most stories lack depth and fail to address specific disabilities effectively. There is limited consultation with PWDs or their families, which affects the richness of the narratives.
Public Perception and Impact: The media is slowly helping to reduce stigma, but its reporting often reinforces incomplete or outdated views of disability. More empowering and thoughtful storytelling is needed to foster greater inclusion and positively influence public attitudes." (Analysis and discusssion, page 25)
Representation Gaps: Coverage of disability-related topics has increased but is often limited to specific events or observance days. Many stories lack depth and focus on sympathy rather than empowerment. This limits a rights-based narrative that highlights the achievements and abilities of PWDs.
Media Practices: Disability-related content is underrepresented compared to mainstream topics like politics or entertainment. Such news is often placed on less prominent pages or in secondary TV segments. Limited resources and attention from media management further reduce the impact of reporting on disability issues.
Workplace Inclusion: Some media organizations have begun including employees with disabilities, especially in digital roles. However, challenges like inaccessible workplaces, lack of proper support, and insufficient training continue to create barriers.
Content Analysis: The tone of reporting is generally neutral to positive, with respectful visual representation. However, most stories lack depth and fail to address specific disabilities effectively. There is limited consultation with PWDs or their families, which affects the richness of the narratives.
Public Perception and Impact: The media is slowly helping to reduce stigma, but its reporting often reinforces incomplete or outdated views of disability. More empowering and thoughtful storytelling is needed to foster greater inclusion and positively influence public attitudes." (Analysis and discusssion, page 25)
