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The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in the Way We Communicate 

Emotional Intelligence
Reading Time: 2 minutes

The ability to perceive, comprehend, and control one’s own emotions as well as to affect and influence those of others is known as emotional intelligence (EI). Daniel Goleman popularized the term emotional intelligence (EI), which was first used by psychologists Peter Salovey and John Mayer (team, 2024).

It includes abilities like empathy, self-awareness, and effective interpersonal communication. Emotional intelligence is essential in both personal and professional contexts since it improves relationships, encourages teamwork, and guarantees productive communication. Understanding emotional intelligence (EI) can result in significant gains in our interactions in the linked world of today, when communication is the main key to success and unity.

The Aspects of Emotional Intelligence and Their Effect on Communication

Emotional intelligence comprises five core aspects: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Each of these significantly impacts how we communicate.

Self-awareness enables individuals to understand their emotional triggers and responses, ensuring their communication is deliberate rather than reactive. For instance, a self-aware person in a heated argument might pause before responding, reducing conflict.

Self-regulation allows individuals to control impulses and maintain composure under stress, facilitating respectful and composed interactions.

Empathy is the cornerstone of understanding others’ emotions. It helps us listen actively and respond appropriately, creating an atmosphere of trust.

Social skills, such as teamwork and conflict resolution, are essential for navigating complex interpersonal dynamics.

By mastering these aspects, individuals can foster open and effective communication, avoiding misinterpretations and building stronger relationships.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Communication

Clear, sympathetic, and powerful communication requires emotional intelligence. It assists people with interpreting the emotions of others, controlling their own emotions, and adjusting their reactions according to the situation. This ensures that messages are successfully conveyed and encourages comprehension.

One common example is when a teacher provides feedback to students without criticizing or discouraging them; this is regarded as a productive and successful approach to dealing with the issue. By doing this, students would be inspired to put in more effort and view the criticism as an opportunity for growth rather than a deterrent. The example provided demonstrates how emotional intelligence improves communication and guards against miscommunication.

Emotional intelligence is undeniably central to effective communication. Its aspects—self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills—enable us to navigate the complexities of human interaction with clarity and sensitivity. Emotional awareness, in particular, prevents misunderstandings and fosters meaningful connections, making it valuable in both personal and professional contexts.

To enhance emotional intelligence, individuals can:

  1. Practice active listening, focusing on understanding rather than simply responding.
  2. Engage in self-reflection to recognize and address emotional triggers.
  3. Seek feedback to identify blind spots in interpersonal communication.
  4. Cultivate empathy by considering others’ perspectives and experiences.

By prioritizing emotional intelligence, we can transform the way we communicate, creating a foundation for stronger relationships, better teamwork, and a more compassionate world.

Reference:

team, N. e. (2024). Goleman’s Theory of Emotional Intelligence: A Comprehensive Exploration.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

 

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The Lessons I Learned in University During My First Semester

UII
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Starting university felt like stepping into a new world filled with endless possibilities. My expectations were high—I imagined a life of freedom, excitement, and growth, unburdened by obstacles. I thought university would be my bridge to the outside world, where I could explore new horizons without limitations. As the semester unfolded, I realized that while those expectations had some truth, the reality was far more nuanced.

One of the most challenging aspects of my first semester was adapting to the drastic shift from high school to university. The transition wasn’t just academic; it required me to adjust to a completely new environment. This was particularly overwhelming as an international student. Navigating unfamiliar systems, connecting with new people, and finding my place in a diverse community were hurdles I had to overcome. Yet, these struggles taught me resilience and adaptability—skills I know will serve me well in the future.

On the flip side, this semester wasn’t all about challenges. A significant part of university life has been the personal growth I’ve experienced. Interacting with peers from different backgrounds and perspectives has allowed me to expand my thinking and develop a deeper understanding of myself. Every conversation, group project, and activity has contributed to my personal development, making this journey both exciting and enriching.

One of the highlights of this semester has been discovering a new perspective in my Communication Science classes. A standout lesson for me was realizing the importance of becoming the best version of myself—not just academically but holistically. I came to understand that securing a bright future isn’t about perfection but rather about consistent self-improvement. Additionally, I learned that ignorance isn’t a flaw; it’s an opportunity to broaden my vision. This shift in mindset has encouraged me to embrace curiosity and approach learning with humility.

One of the most memorable courses I took was Introduction to Public Relations. At first, it was challenging to understand PR strategies and models, but our lecturer made it easier with case studies and feedback. This taught me that I don’t have to master everything right away,I just need to keep improving. I also learned the importance of clear communication and its impact, which will be valuable for my future.

Reflecting on my first semester, I feel deeply grateful for the experiences I’ve had. Meeting incredible people, gaining knowledge, and navigating challenges have all contributed to my growth. Most importantly, this semester has gifted me a transformation—one that has given me confidence and clarity about the person I want to become.

The journey hasn’t been without its ups and downs, but every moment has been worth it. As I look forward to the semesters ahead, I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and embracing the opportunities that come my way. My first semester has taught me that university life is not just about academics but about discovering yourself and your place in the world.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Rise Of Aesthetic Photography: Why People Love It?

Finding beauty in every frame: The art of capturing inspiring moments.
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Aesthetic photography, the art of capturing visually pleasing images, has roots stretching back to the early days of photography in the 19th century. Early photographers, inspired by classical art, aimed to create compositions that went beyond documentation, reflecting beauty, harmony, and emotion.

The Pictorialism movement in the late 1800s emphasized this artistic approach, blending photography with fine art principles. Over time, as cameras became more accessible, aesthetic photography evolved into a medium for self-expression, leading to its widespread popularity today.

Aesthetic photography allows individuals to express themselves and find beauty in everyday life. The process of creating an image includes selecting the right lighting, angle, and subject. Sometimes it can be both meditative and creative for photographers. Many people are drawn to aesthetic photography because it offers a way to tell stories visually.

A single image has the ability to evoke emotions, nostalgia, or provide a sense of escape. For some, it’s about crafting a curated representation of their lives that aligns with their aspirations or personal brand. Additionally, aesthetic photos can be a source of pride and confidence. Sharing a visually pleasing image often brings validation through likes, comments, and shares, enhancing a sense of accomplishment.

What Sets Aesthetic Photography Apart From Other Types?

Unlike other types of photography, such as documentary or journalistic photography, aesthetic photography prioritizes beauty and emotional resonance over factual accuracy. Its focus is on creating an experience rather than just capturing a moment.Aesthetic photography often employs artistic techniques such as color grading, minimalism, and symmetry to create images that feel harmonious and captivating.

The subjects can range from simple objects like a cup of coffee to breathtaking landscapes, but the emphasis is always on presentation.This genre’s uniqueness lies in its adaptability as it blurs the lines between photography, art, and design, making it accessible to anyone willing to explore their creative instincts.

Social Media Influence on Aesthetic Photography

Instagram plays a crucial role in shaping contemporary aesthetic photography. Its “like” system serves as a measurable indicator of aesthetic appeal, as researched by Thömmes and Hübner. Their study analyzed 15,073 images across various genres, including architecture, dance, and landscape, and found a strong correlation between “likes” and users’ aesthetic preferences.

This system not only reflects public opinion but also influences creators by rewarding specific visual styles and compositions. As Instagram’s algorithms prioritize engagement, photographers adapt their styles to align with trends that attract more attention, creating a feedback loop. This dynamic highlights Instagram’s significant impact on the perception and production of beauty in photography.

Aesthetic photography helps people find beauty in everyday life and express their creativity in unique ways. By turning simple moments into art, it inspires us to see the world from a fresh perspective.

References:

[1] K. T. a. R. Hübner, ” Why People Press “Like”: A New Measure for Aesthetic Appeal Derived from instgram data,” p. 18, 2020.
[2] H. E. a. N. R. Robert, Britannica, 18 november 2024 . [Online]. Available: https://www.britannica.com/technology/photography/Perfecting-the-medium-c-1900-c-1945.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Improving your English as an International Student

Improving your English as an International Student
Reading Time: 2 minutes

In 2024, approximately 1.52 billion people worldwide speak English, highlighting its importance as a vital learning tool, especially for international students. English plays a significant role in communication, understanding academic material, and connecting with peers. However, Improving English can often be challenging and overwhelming at the beginning. To tackle these difficulties, students can adopt various strategies to enhance their English skills. This approach allows them to make substantial progress and effectively address their obstacles.

Immerse Yourself in the Language

One of the most effective ways for international students to improve their English is through immersion in the language. They should aim to surround themselves with English as much as possible by speaking the language throughout the day. Additionally, students should engage in conversations with classmates, friends, and lecturers. The key is to make English an integral part of their daily lives and to expose themselves to it as often as possible. Although it may take time to adjust to this change, consistent practice will lead to faster improvement in their language skills.

Use Academic and Online Resources

Students are encouraged to utilize the resources available to them. They will likely have access to workshops, academic lectures, and university clubs, all of which can help improve their writing, grammar, and speaking skills. Taking advantage of these tools can enhance their language proficiency and help them focus on challenging areas.

Practice Consistently and Track Your Progress

Consistency is essential when learning English. Set aside time every day for practice. You can write in a journal, record yourself speaking, or even have conversations with native speakers online. Additionally, there are online tools that can help you stay consistent and provide easy access to resources, such as Grammarly and Duolingo. It’s also important to track your progress. Celebrate small achievements, such as learning a new word or writing a clear sentence. Over time, you’ll notice how much you’ve improved.

How These Tips Helped Me as an International Student

Applying these strategies has significantly improved my English skills as an international student. To immerse myself in the language, I actively avoided holding conversations in my native language and instead engaged with more English speakers. This consistent effort allowed me to become comfortable speaking English daily while also building my vocabulary. For academic and online resources, I made use of the English books available in the library and regularly watched YouTube videos for shadowing practice, which enhanced my listening and speaking abilities. Lastly, I developed a routine of writing down my progress and taking weekly quizzes to assess my improvement. Even when I did not see immediate results, I reminded myself to stay positive and not become discouraged, knowing that consistent effort would eventually lead to progress.

Improving their English may require time and dedication from international students, but the benefits are well worth the effort. By immersing themselves in the language, utilizing helpful resources, and practicing regularly, they can make steady progress. Remember, every small step counts. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they are an essential part of the learning process.

Reference:

International Center for Language Studies. (2024, August 20). Retrieved from https://www.icls.edu/blog/most-spoken-languages-in-the-world

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Why did TikTok Become Gen Z’s Search Engine?

Why did TikTok Become Gen Z’s Search Engine?
Reading Time: 2 minutes

In recent years, the way people search for information has changed significantly. The rapid growth of social media platforms has transformed the search experience by offering quick, visual, and personalized content. Among these platforms, according to the Fix article TikTok has emerged as a go-to source for information, especially for Generation Z.

This generation prefers dynamic and interactive experiences over static ones, making TikTok more than just an entertainment platform for them. The days of relying solely on search engines like Google and libraries are slowly disappearing.

One of the primary reasons Gen Z prefers TikTok as a search engine is the vast variety of content it offers. Unlike traditional search engines that mainly provide text-based links, TikTok presents information in short-form video format, making it more personalized and engaging. This unique approach allows users to access multiple sources for their questions easily.

For Generation Z, who have grown up in the digital age, TikTok is a familiar and effective platform. The content available on TikTok covers a wide variety of topics, including tutorials, life hacks, and in-depth explorations of different interests. Users can find videos on everything from quick meal preparation and study tips to product reviews. TikTok’s algorithm curates personalized feeds, presenting users with content based on their previous interactions, which makes the information they encounter highly relevant and tailored to their interests.

Another reason TikTok works for Gen Z is the trust they place in its content. Many users feel a connection with creators who share relatable, real-life experiences. This authenticity makes TikTok seem more trustworthy than traditional sources, which often feel distant or impersonal. While misinformation is a concern, Gen Z often balances this by cross-checking facts or consulting multiple sources.

Rania is one of Gen z, she said that ‘She thinks that most of the gen z can’t stand reading for hours or watching long videos to get information, Tiktok provide really short videos which is good for people that can be distracted easily, also she read in an article that most of gen z suffer from shrinking attention span (Snow, 2023), that make them struggle to finish movies or the books they read overall TikTok is the only platform that catch their attention, and seems to be customized to their needs’’.

In conclusion, TikTok has changed the way Generation Z searches for information. Its fast-paced, engaging format, relatable creators, and authentic content make it an ideal platform for a generation that values speed, simplicity, and trust. As search habits continue to evolve, TikTok’s influence on how we consume information is undeniable.

References:

Marzano, E. (2024, 11 1). Retrieved from The Fix: https://thefix.media/2024/11/1/relatable-real-raw-tiktoks-power-in-news-for-gen-z

Snow, S. (2023, January 16). Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/shanesnow/2023/01/16/science-shows-humans-have-massive-capacity-for-sustained-attention-and-storytelling-unlocks-it/?sh=729b67281a38

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Transforming Yourself Through Reading: Insights From Three Remarkable Books

Transforming Yourself Through Reading: Insights From Three Remarkable Books
Reading Time: 2 minutes

In the realm of self-development, reading is an invaluable tool for personal growth, effective communication, and public speaking. Books offer timeless wisdom and practical strategies that reshape our habits, enhance our interpersonal skills, and help us overcome mental obstacles. Reading a book is like embarking on a thrilling journey through the minds of brilliant thinkers, offering the chance to unlock new perspectives, gain knowledge, and have a spark of endless possibilities within yourself.

This article will explore three insightful books: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, “Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?” by Julie Smith, and “Surrounded by Idiots” by Thomas Erikson. Each of these books provides transformative lessons to help individuals thrive in their personal and professional lives. We will also discuss the broader significance of reading for personal growth, particularly for university students.

Atomic Habits

Clear’s Atomic Habits emphasizes the power of small, consistent changes to create lasting improvements in our lives. The book introduces the concept of habit stacking and the “4 Laws of Behaviour Change,” which guide readers to make habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying.

Key insights:

The Compound Effect: Tiny, unnoticeable changes compound over time, leading to remarkable transformations.

Identity-Based Habits: Focusing on who you want to become (e.g. a confident speaker) rather than what you want to achieve ensures sustained progress.

Real-life Application: By aligning habits with goals, one can gradually and effectively enhance skills like public speaking and communication.

 Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before

Dr. Julie Smith’s Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? offers practical psychological strategies to tackle mental health challenges and develop resilience. It’s an accessible guide to understanding emotions and maintaining mental well-being.

Key insights:

Emotional Mastery: Learning to regulate emotions can significantly improve interpersonal communication and clarity of thought.

Building Confidence: Tools for overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome are crucial for public speaking and professional success.

Practical Tools: The book provides actionable advice for staying grounded, managing anxiety, and communicating effectively under pressure.

Surrounded by Idiots

In Surrounded by Idiots, Thomas Erikson examines four personality types—Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green—and their influence on communication and relationships. The book clarifies human behaviour  and teaches how to adjust communication styles to suit different personalities.

Key Insights:

Personality Types: Understanding the strengths, weaknesses, and preferences associated with each personality type promotes effective collaboration.

Tailored Communication: Modifying your message to align with the listener’s personality enhances understanding and connection, which is essential for public speaking.

Conflict Resolution: The book offers strategies for resolving misunderstandings and building stronger relationships in both personal and professional contexts.

Reading is a cornerstone of personal growth, offering knowledge, inspiration, and new perspectives. For university students, it is particularly vital as it shapes their academic and professional futures. Through reading, students can develop critical thinking, enhance their communication skills, and build self-confidence. In today’s competitive environment, university students who prioritize reading not only gain a competitive edge but also develop the emotional intelligence and adaptability needed to excel in their careers and relationships.

These three books—Atomic Habits, Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?, and Surrounded by Idiots—offer simple yet powerful tools for personal growth. They teach better habits, emotional resilience, and effective communication. Reading is a key to lifelong learning, and for university students, it’s an essential step toward success in life and work. Start your journey today with these transformative reads!

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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12 IPC Students Join the International Conference ‘Current Development and Prospect of Cooperation Between Indonesia and Russia’

12 IPC Students Join the International Conference ‘Current Development and Prospect of Cooperation Between Indonesia and Russia’
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Several International Program Communications (IPC) UII students had the opportunity to join the international conference ‘Current Development and Prospect of Cooperation Between Indonesia and Russia’ on 18 November 2024 in Yogyakarta.

Nahdhatul Ulama University (UNU) Yogyakarta organized the international conference in collaboration with Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University).

The academic forum, which was attended by students and lecturers from various universities and practitioners, discussed strategic issues ranging from education, and business, to international cooperation opportunities.

Technically, the participants were divided into groups consisting of various universities. Each group will discuss and create ideas and solutions in response to the most beneficial cooperation potential for Indonesia and Russia.

Quoting from the official website of UNU Yogyakarta, academics from MGIMO University include Dr Nikita Kuklin, Dr Alena Dolgova, and Dr. Kira Tabunova. In general, the material presented was opportunities for cooperation, both in terms of academics related to scholarships in Russia and how to negotiate and communicate with people from various cultural backgrounds.

Ideas Delivered by IPC Students in International Forums

There were 12 IPC students who participated in the forum, one of the participants, Berliana Hafinda, shared her experience at the academic forum.

She got a topic related to logistics, with a team of 7 students from various campuses. In general, logistics is a process that involves planning, implementing, and controlling the flow of goods and information from the point of origin to the point of consumption.

“From the discussion we have done, the urgency of cooperation between Russia and Indonesia in the logistics industry is from the vast opportunities in Indonesia due to the natural conditions and the shape of the archipelago,” Berliana said.

“In addition, why choose Russia, because they have experience in this field. For example, there is GTLogistics as a company that focuses on this field which has advanced technology as well,” she added.

Humaira Lathifah, IPC Batch 2023 explained that the academic forum has relevance to the study of Communication Science, especially about intercultural communication.

“The most prominent thing is intercultural communication. We as participants get to know the cultures that exist in Russia. how is the cultural background and also the cultural differences with us as people who come from Indonesia,” said Humaira.

Regarding the topic at the international conference, the curriculum she studied was able to answer various challenges, ranging from communication strategies to critical thinking.

“As well as the PESTEL and SWOT analysis tasks, these are relevant to the development of corporate communication strategies when looking to enter new markets, as well as some public relations principles. strengthening communication soft skills is also included. public speaking, persuasion, critical thinking are very influential. which is the core of communication skills,” she said.

List of participants:

  1. Clorentia Sherly (Batch 2021)
  2. Berliana Hafinda AS (Batch 2021)
  3. Alifia Syauqillah Arrahman (Batch 2023)
  4. Fabio Danendra (Batch 2023)
  5. Cleodora Faustina (Batch 2023)
  6. Amelia Putri (Batch 2023)
  7. Humaira Lathifah (Batch 2023)
  8. Muhammad Fathurrahman Prima Sakti (Batch 2023)
  9. Muhammad Atha Damario (Batch 22)
  10. Spica Fijriyani S (Batch 22)
  11. Ahmad Jamaludin NurFahmi (Batch 22)
  12. Musdalifah (Batch 22)
  13. Muhammad Aranbagus (Batch 22)

All participants took turns presenting their ideas, in general they mentioned cooperation opportunities to the most profitable industries that could be collaborated between Indonesia and Russia.

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Gender Equality and The Responsibility of Social Media

gender equality
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Gender equality is fundamentally a human right. It means that all individuals regardless of their gender, race, or class should have equal opportunities, rights, and dignity in society. Beyond being a moral obligation, gender equality is essential for creating peaceful communities, unlocking human potential, and improving lives. In today’s digital era, social media has emerged as one of the most powerful tools for promoting gender equality.

Social media provides a platform for individuals to share their stories and experiences, which fosters advocacy, raises awareness, and drives systemic change. Its global reach and accessibility have contributed to significant shifts in how gender equality is perceived and addressed around the world.

Social media plays a significant role in promoting gender equality by offering a platform for marginalized groups.  For example, hashtags like #HeForShe and #EqualPay have sparked widespread discussions and mobilized action worldwide. Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok enable users to share personal experiences of discrimination and success stories, amplifying diverse voices.

For instance, the #MeToo movement, which originated in Hollywood, became a global phenomenon that exposed systemic harassment and discrimination across industries, including sports, media, and academia. It not only encouraged survivors to share their stories but also led to changes, such as stricter workplace harassment policies in countries like the United States, India, and France. Similarly, the #HeForShe campaign launched by UN Women encouraged men to take an active role in advocating for gender equality and challenging traditional gender norms.

Social media makes a significant contribution to gender equality, but it also has risks. One major issue is misinformation. When false information spreads, it can create confusion and harm the cause of gender equality. Also, insensitive posts can reinforce stereotypes or make light of serious issues, which can hurt people’s understanding of gender issues. For instance, false claims about gender pay gaps or exaggerated statistics on women’s participation in politics can undermine efforts for equality. In some cases, such misinformation is intentionally spread by groups opposing gender rights movements. This creates mistrust and diverts focus from real issues.

Another critical challenge is the prevalence of online harassment and hate speech. Platforms like Instagram and Twitter often become breeding grounds for trolls who target individuals advocating for gender equality. Survivors of gender-based violence, in particular, face threats, victim-blaming, and silencing tactics that discourage them from speaking out. For example, many women who share their experiences with harassment or assault online report receiving abusive comments, which can retraumatize survivors and deter others from joining the conversation.

To address these challenges, a multi-faceted approach is required:

  1. Platform Responsibility: Social media companies must take greater responsibility in moderating content. Implementing stricter policies against hate speech, increasing transparency in algorithm design, and promoting educational campaigns can create a safer online environment.
  2. Government Regulation: Governments can play a role in regulating online harassment by enacting and enforcing laws that protect individuals from cyberbullying, hate speech, and gendered abuse.
  3. Community Support: Encouraging online communities to support marginalized voices and report abusive behavior can help build a more inclusive digital space. Initiatives that celebrate positive narratives and allyship can shift othe nline discourse in a constructive direction.

Despite challenges posed by online harassment, and misinformation social media remains a vital tool for empowering people, allowing them to share their experiences and advocating for their rights. Ultimately, Its potential to unite people and challenge societal norms makes it essential for achieving gender equality.

 

References:

Transparency: The First Step to Fixing Social Media

How should social media platforms combat misinformation and hate speech?

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita

The 5th Annual Workshop on Globalization 2024: Voices for Change ‘Media’s Role in Ending Gender-Based Violence’

AWG
Reading Time: 3 minutes

It was recorded that throughout 2024 the number of reports of sexual violence cases collected by the Ministry of PPPA reached 23,294 cases. Of these, women are the most victims with a percentage reaching 86 per cent. (Data up to 20 November 2024)

Ironically, gender-based violence does not stop at that issue. The media has a big role, one of which is by publishing articles whose language actually complicates and normalizes gender-based violence (GBV).

Numbers and facts cannot be underestimated, to respond to gender-based violence (GBV) the International Program Communication (IPC) held The5th Annual Workshop on Globalization 2024 which took the topic Voices for Change ‘Media’s Role in Ending Gender-Based Violence’ on 19 November 2024 at Main Library UII.

This topic explores the intersection of globalization, feminism, and media in shaping gender-based violence (GBV) and its impact on women’s empowerment.

How Media’s Role in Ending Gender-based Violence?

Interestingly, this workshop did not only present perspectives from women’s voices, but also from men’s voices. The three speakers presented included Dr. Katrin Bandel (Faculty member of the Department of Cultural Studies, Sanata Dharma University, International Scholar with expertise in media and gender studies), Indiah Wahyu Andari (Director of Rifka Annisa Women’s Crisis Center, a gender specialist with expertise in gender-based violence), and Iwan Awaluddin Yuyuf, Ph.D. (Faculty member of the Department of Communications, Universitas Islam Indonesia, an expert on media and gender studies).

Dr. Katrin Bandel delivered a presentation on ‘Sexual Violence Narratives in the Mass Media and in Fiction’. She explained how the narratives in the media are more likely to tell things that do not consider the trauma of victims to be unbalanced.

Sexual violence is an experience that ruins the victim’s life, it is also tough to tell. However, at the same time, the media actually makes news that explores the profile of the perpetrator and compares his condition with the victim. Until the public is led to sympathize with the future of the perpetrator if they receive severe punishment.

“But even therapeutic or feminist narratives can become problematic, if they are normalized, so that a rape victim not fitting into the narrative feels marginalized and not represented,” she said.

In addition, rape culture normalizes rape and sexual violence through the assumption that it is normal for men to be very aggressive and unable to control their desires. Unfortunately, another habit is victim blaming for the victim’s appearance, accusing the victim as a provocateur for the perpetrator’s actions.

This statement is supported by research conducted by Iwan Awaluddin Yusuf, Ph.D, the media in Indonesia in publishing GBV news often journalists use titles that are not in accordance with the context.

‘The problem starts with the use of words. Double victimization’ he said.

In the context of sexual violence against child victims, the choice of words that should use the phrase ‘rape and sexual abuse’ instead chooses ‘planning sex’. In the choice of words, children who should be positioned as victims instead seem to be sexual subjects.

By giving various examples of inappropriate word choice, he said that the position of journalists as important figures in the media should be a fair figure.

‘Journalists as mindful users of language, fix the misused word,’ he said again.

Indiah Wahyu Andari, a professional who has been helping GBV victims for years, said that the role of the media is very large. One of them is through GBV preventive campaigns.

She shared three stages of prevention, first primary prevention which refers to activities to do before sexual violence occurs through stopping conditions that support sexual violence and promoting positive behaviors to prevent sexual violence.

Then there is secondary prevention, which is the immediate response after sexual violence occurs to prevent and address both short-term and long-term impacts on victims through things like reporting, case handling, and recovery.

Finally, tertiary prevention is activities to prevent the recurrence of violence. Building structures, norms, and social practices that prevent the risk of recurrence of violence.

The hope is that the workshop will be able to offer a global perspective. The dual role of the media in perpetuating and overcoming violence against women, and the important role of feminist activism in shaping media narratives and promoting women’s empowerment.

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The Power of Youth: Making the World a Better Place for Everyone

The Power of Youth: Making the World a Better Place for Everyone
Reading Time: 2 minutes

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) are 17 agreements signed by 193 countries in 2015 to transform the world by 2030. Its ultimate goal is to create a better world where sustainability, safety, and equality drive our decisions. In our current economy, the majority are young people. They are known as the most flexible and adaptable generation and are also a major source of innovation and creativity. Their role in a country’s progress and prosperity shows how important it is for them to contribute to sustainable development.

Youth involvement is crucial for a sustainable future, as they bring fresh ideas, motivation, and commitment. They approach problems with a different outlook and creative solutions; having such skills would make their involvement more effective. Plus, they are skilled with digital tools and social media, allowing them to spread awareness and mobilize communities on a global scale. As this generation will face the longest-lasting impacts of today’s decisions, this makes their involvement more effective in solving today’s challenges.

Since there are significant global challenges that impact their future, young people should become involved in the sustainability movement. For instance, there have been serious weather occurrences due to the approximately 1.1°C increase in global temperatures since pre-industrial times; in 2019 alone, 344 natural disasters caused $150 billion in damages. Animal populations have declined by an average of 68% since 1970 as a result of habitat degradation, which is also hurting wildlife. Furthermore, air pollution affects many people’s health, particularly in underprivileged areas, and causes about 7 million early deaths annually.

With a global rate of roughly 13.7% as of 2022, youth unemployment is another issue that makes it more difficult for young people to find employment. Youth may address these urgent issues by becoming involved in the sustainability movement. By joining the sustainability movement, youth can help tackle these pressing issues and work for a healthier and fairer planet for everyone.

How can the youth be involved and what are the outcomes of youth contribution

Youth can be involved in existing youth-led movements or organizations, such as the global youth biodiversity network, which empowers young people to influence biodiversity policies and initiatives. These platforms provide chances for the youth to collaborate and take collective action toward sustainability goals. Another way is by engaging in educational programs that focus on sustainability. They equip young people with the necessary skills. Knowledge and networks effectively contribute to sustainable development.

Increasing the involvement of young people in sustainable development fosters creative ideas and raises awareness of important problems like inequality and climate change. By promoting inclusivity and attending to the needs of excluded groups, their active participation fosters social unity and increases community resilience. Youth engagement also increases accountability in governance, develops intergenerational cooperation, and empowers young leaders. All things considered, their different points of view and abilities have a big influence on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and help create a more sustainable future for everybody.

Young participation in sustainable development is essential to a brighter future. In order to address problems like inequality and climate change, young people provide new perspectives and a strong sense of justice. They create major improvements and reinforce communities by participating in local initiatives and promoting change. In order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, it is important that we support the voices of young people. By investing in their involvement, we can create a more sustainable world for everyone.

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita