Women Journalists in Finland
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Launched in 1946 to unite women who earn
their living in the media, Women Journalists in Finland is one of the oldest journalists' associations in the
country. Today it brings together women in all forms of journalism, from daily
newspapers and professional publications to news agencies and broadcasting
companies. Acting as a women's network, the association strives to improve the
professional skills of its members as well as the position of female journalists
in newsrooms and editorial offices. |
The association aims
- to promote cooperation between women
journalists
- to influence the way women are presented in the press and on radio and
television
- to take a stand on different issues of importance to women in the media
Women Journalists in Finland are in close
contact with other journalists' associations, the most important of these being
The Union of Journalists in Finland. The association is one of the 54 member
organisations of the National Council of Women of Finland, which unites almost
half a million women - 10% of the population - representing all trades and
interests in the country.
Three themes for activities
The main themes in the activities of the
association are influencing public opinion, professional training in all
branches of journalism, and recreation.
Influence is exerted by arranging public
seminars in order to inspire social debate, particularly on issues concerning
women and equality. The association invites top officials and politicians to
take part in background discussions on topical issues.
Once a year, the Women
Journalists elect a TORCH BEARER OF THE YEAR, a person with a message who,
through his or her independent activity, has brought into public consciousness and stimulated debate on a current social
issue or a problem which has not otherwise received the attention of the public.
Training ranges from exercises in creative
writing and women's well-being at work to studies of the European Union from a
woman's point of view. The members keep up with data technology and run a
special group for those interested in economics and the secrets of the stock
exchange.
The recreational side consists of social
evenings, visits to the theatre, cultural events, study trips and excursions to
meet colleagues, both at home and abroad.
WOMEN JOURNALISTS IN FINLAND
In Finland (population 5 million), the number
of newspapers published per head of population is among the highest in the world.
In the electronic media, Finland operates four domestic national television
channels and six national radio networks. The country is among the top Internet
users of the world. To feed all media, there are 10,000 members of the Union of
Journalists in Finland, 50% of them women.
Women Journalists in Finland - in Finnish, Naistoimittajat
ry - is not a trade union, though membership of one is a condition for
joining the association. The activities of Women Journalists in Finland are run
by a BOARD of 6 to 8 ordinary members, 1 to
2 deputy members plus a chairwoman, all elected for two years running.
The membership fee is 30 euro, which includes a monthly newsletter with
a list of events and activities.
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