Study Highlights Discrimination Faced by Muslim Women in UK Media

Study Highlights Discrimination Faced by Muslim Women in UK Media
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A new report reveals widespread discrimination and workplace challenges faced by Muslim women working in the UK media industry, Khaama Press reported. The study, titled “Muslim Women in the Media: Breaking Barriers, Bearing the Burden,” was published by the Centre for Media Monitoring (CMM) and is based on anonymous responses from 102 Muslim women across print, broadcast, and digital platforms.

Participants described frequent experiences of Islamophobia, stereotyping, and exclusion from key editorial roles. Many reported emotional stress, particularly when covering sensitive topics such as the war in Gaza. Some said the media’s reporting on Gaza had severely impacted their mental health and led them to question their future in journalism.

The report notes that while Muslim women are often employed as a sign of diversity, they are typically limited to reporting on Muslim-related stories and excluded from broader newsroom decision-making. Women who wear the hijab reported additional isolation and bias.

CMM warned that without structural reforms, more Muslim women could leave journalism due to burnout and marginalization. The report also emphasizes how Muslim women are both highly visible and systematically sidelined. CMM Director Rizwana Hamid called for meaningful industry change, cautioning that symbolic inclusion alone will not address deep-rooted inequalities.