The document summarizes a study analyzing media representation of homosexuals in Senegal. It found that media coverage mostly focused on negative events and portrayed homosexuality negatively by associating it with Western influence and threats to society. Journalists displayed ignorance around issues of HIV, sexuality, and human rights. The study recommends increasing sensitive reporting on homosexuals' human rights, conducting further research on journalists' attitudes, and facilitating discussions between journalists and homosexual communities.

1. Analysis of representation
of homosexuals
in print media in Senegal
Press clippings of coverage of articles on
homosexuals in Senegalese media
Background Homosexuals had very little opportunities and access
to express their opinions in the media. While political
Panos Institute West Africa commissioned a study to:
and religious organisations could speak publically
Analyse the representation of homosexuals in the media in without being pursued.
Senegal
Assess whether the media plays any role in discrimination Recommendations
against homosexuals in the country
Analyse the access of homosexuals to the media in Senegal Increase sensitive reporting in the media on
homosexuals by sensitising the national and local
Methodology language media on the recognition of human rights
and concepts of tolerance promoted by different
Data was collected through a desk study review, an analysis
religions.
of newspapers and transcription of radio programs, between
2008 and 2009, when homophobia was at its peak. Conduct further research on the knowledge and
attitudes of journalists from local and national media
Interviews were conducted with media practitioners and
on HIV, homosexuality and human rights.
NGOs working on communication.
Facilitate interactions with sensitive journalists and
Key Findings MSM willing to discuss their concerns.
Media coverage on homosexuals was limited to key events such
as marriage of homosexuals, ICASA and arrest of homosexuals.
Media played an important role in increasing homophobia in
Senegal by portraying homosexuality as :
• A new import from the West, supported by dark lobby groups
• An existential threat against society and its sacred
foundations
• Associating homosexuality with the fear of AIDS
Many journalists were ignorant of broader debates on HIV and
AIDS, sexuality and human rights, and notions of tolerance www.panosaids.org
towards homosexuals promoted by Islam. For details contact:
The media ignored the principles and rules of production of 20, Route de Freres, Petion-Ville, B.P. 1595
reliable information. Journalists did not crosscheck facts or HT-6110, Port–au–Prince, Haiti
spoke with the homosexuals directly. anushree@panosaids.org
pbend@panos-ao.org
TUPE0593 Tuesday 20 July, 2010
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