The Role of Media in Promoting Sports Justice: Gender, Ethnicity, and Athlete Representation in Indonesia

Abstract

The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of athletes and sports culture, influencing both the visibility of athletes and the broader discourse around sports justice. This paper examines how media outlets in Indonesia represent athletes, with a particular focus on gender and ethnicity, and how these representations impact societal attitudes toward equity in sports. It investigates the underrepresentation of female athletes and athletes from marginalized ethnic groups, assessing how this lack of visibility affects opportunities, sponsorships, and career advancement. The study highlights both the positive and negative roles that media can play in either reinforcing or challenging stereotypes, and offers recommendations for more inclusive sports media coverage. By exploring media strategies, policy changes, and ethical considerations, the paper calls for a more just media landscape that supports diversity in sports representation.