Navigating Hostility: The Role of Cultural and Political Dynamics in Online Harassment of Female Journalists in India

Abstract

This study critically examines how cultural and social identities, coupled with the volatile political climate, influence the frequency and nature of online harassment faced by women journalists in India. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research incorporates quantitative data from a survey of 113 female journalists and qualitative insights from in-depth interviews with seven journalists from diverse backgrounds. The findings reveal a significant correlation between cultural events and increased harassment, highlighted by a strong Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient of 0.974. Political events similarly elevate harassment risks, confirming that both the perception and severity of harassment intensify during such periods. Additionally, the effectiveness of institutional support and personal coping strategies are scrutinized, indicating a crucial role for media organizations in mitigating harassment through proactive measures. The study not only highlights the specific vulnerabilities of women journalists in India but also calls for comprehensive policy reforms and stronger organizational support systems to safeguard these vital voices in the media landscape. The strong empirical evidence presented urges immediate action to ensure a safer online environment, fostering a more inclusive and equitable journalistic field.