CeMI is implementing the project "From Silence to Narrative: Representation of the LGBTIQ+ Community in Montenegrin Media (2011-2024)," which aims to contribute to a higher level of social acceptance and visibility of LGBTQI+ persons in Montenegro by promoting accurate, balanced, and fact-based media reporting. The project also aims to contribute to the reduction of negative media narratives and hate speech directed at LGBTQI+ persons by conducting a comprehensive analysis of long-term trends in media reporting and online comments.
"The objective of the project is also to encourage evidence-based advocacy for systemic changes in Montenegro by generating and sharing data-driven insights – including analysis of media content, public comments, and sentiment regarding LGBTQI+ representation – with civil society organizations, media professionals, and institutional actors, in order to promote inclusive public narratives and information."
The project addressed a long-standing lack of longitudinal studies and data regarding the frequency, tone, and context of media reporting on LGBTIQ+ persons, as well as the narratives present in online comments.
"As part of the research conducted within the project, approximately 3,250 media articles and about 35,000 comments published on the portals Vijesti, Analitika, and IN4S between 2012 and 2024 were analyzed. The analysis was carried out using a combination of manual and machine coding, which enabled the systematic mapping of dominant narratives, sentiments, and thematic frameworks in which the LGBTIQ+ community appears in the public narrative."
Within the project, a Manual for Journalists and Media Professionals was developed, offering concrete guidelines for ethical, accurate, and inclusive reporting on LGBTIQ+ topics, with practical examples and recommendations for newsroom operations and the management of online comments. CeMI is launching a campaign by developing key messages based on the findings of the monitoring and media reporting analysis, focusing on debunking stereotypes, promoting accurate and responsible representation, and encouraging respect and constructive public dialogue.
The research findings will be presented at our roundtable scheduled for February 12 at the PR Center in Podgorica.
The project "From Silence to Narrative: Representation of LGBTIQ+ in Montenegrin Media (2011–2024)," implemented by CeMI, is supported through the broader program "Together for LGBTIQ+ Equality," led by the Centre for Civic Education (CCE/CGO) in partnership with ERA – LGBTI Equal
Rights Association for the Western Balkans and Turkey, Queer Montenegro, Queer Center Skopje, Tuzla Open Center, Open Mind Spectrum Albania, and the Center for Social Group Development from Kosovo (CSGD). The project is funded by the European Union and co-funded by the Ministry of Regional-Investment Development and Cooperation with Non-Governmental Organizations.