Muslim Women in Media: Breaking Barriers, Bearing the Burden
New Report Reveals Alarming Levels of Discrimination, Exclusion and Burnout
An unprecedented survey and powerful report by the Centre for Media Monitoring (CfMM) exposes a troubling reality: Muslim women working in British media face startling levels of systemic discrimination, unfair representations, and professional marginalisation — with most respondents considering leaving the industry as a result of their experiences.
Based on a wide-ranging anonymous survey of 102 Muslim women working across print, broadcast and online media, the report reveals widespread Islamophobia, toxic newsroom cultures, and mental health impacts — particularly following the media’s coverage of the war on Gaza. Visibly Muslim women are especially subject to microaggressions, stereotyping, and pay disparities.
Key Findings:
92% said negative views about Islam and Muslims are embedded within media organisations
72% experienced direct discrimination linked to their Muslim identity
86% said coverage of the Gaza war negatively impacted their mental health
85% questioned their future in media following October 7th reporting
60% have considered leaving the industry altogether
81% believe Muslim women are unfairly represented in the media
35% are dissatisfied with their roles, citing tokenism and lack of progress
In addition to survey results, it profiles the professional journeys of 33 Muslim journalists — from leading names like Mishal Husain (former BBC Today presenter), Nesrine Malik (Guardian columnist), Zeinab Badawi (journalist and broadcaster), Yasmin Alibhai-Brown (iNews columnist), Fatima Manji (former Channel 4 newsreader), to rising talents such as Nabihah Parkar (Head of TikTok, The Times), Furvah Shah (entertainment journalist), and Ash Sarkar (Novara Media contributing editor).
