Politicisation of Gender

The concept of politicisation relates to processes of (in)visibilisation, which involves selecting elements that align with the prevailing hegemonic ideology at a given historical moment, as well as moderating or suppressing disruptive elements. These processes of (in)visibilisation significantly influence public discourse and media narratives, shaping societal perceptions and priorities. Sometimes, gender dynamics, stereotypes, and issues contribute to enhance the (in)visibility. Through a detailed analysis of a case study focused on migrant rescue operations in 2019 and subsequent media coverage in Italy, the chapter illustrates how certain subjects, such as prominent political figures like Matteo Salvini, are emphasised, while others, particularly migrants, are relegated to the sidelines or even rendered invisible. This analysis highlights the underlying mechanisms through which dominant ideologies about gender, race, and power are intertwined to each other in the media coverage, resulting in the perpetuation of social order and the marginalisation of dissenting voices. By unpacking these dynamics, the chapter provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between power, representation, and visibility in contemporary socio-political contexts.