In light of the numerous sexist statements in public that we have witnessed and that have been brought to our attention by citizens, the BaBe association hereby appeals to all public figures, with special emphasis on journalists, to respect the rules of the profession and the moral and ethical values of a modern democratic society in their public conduct.
Art. 3 of the Media Act (OG 59/04, 84/11, 81/13) expressly prohibits the incitement or glorification of gender inequality and the incitement of sexual or other hostility through media content. At the same time, in accordance with Art. 13 of the Code of Honour of Croatian Journalists (2009), which states that it is inadmissible to use "stereotypes, pejorative expressions, humiliating portrayals, as well as any other form of direct or indirect incitement or support of discrimination", it is the obligation of every journalist to promote and protect fundamental human rights and freedoms. We emphasize that the equality of all citizens - regardless of gender, age, ethnicity and other characteristics - is one of the fundamental values of the European Union, which is also reflected in the Code itself. With these norms, we wish to point out that sexist and discriminatory behavior is not only contrary to individual moral principles, but also to the laws of the Republic of Croatia, relevant regulations and international conventions ratified by the Republic of Croatia.
If we want to build a democratic society, we are forced to reflect on the cultural meanings that circulate in public space, as well as the ways in which we communicate these meanings. Insults, gender-based disparagement, sexualization and stereotypes continuously fill media content. The meanings reproduced through this content underlie the inequality and violation of dignity that women suffer every day in public space, because it is the media and public role models that shape our own beliefs and behaviors in everyday interactions. It is time for public actors with a great influence on public opinion to start acting to eradicate the culture of violence against women, which is an indirect consequence of sexist representations in public space.
It is the duty of each of us to respond to discrimination and injustice, so we are extremely grateful to all citizens who have taken on this duty and requested our response in their reports. We believe that working towards social change is not only the responsibility of institutions, but also of each individual. We call on all citizens to continue to contact us with trust so that together, through active citizenship, we can act towards the common good and build a better community based on democratic principles.
