Deficiencies in the regulatory regulations of the media in Ecuador: A critical analysis of the Regulation to Prevent and Eradicate Violence Against Women in the Media

Abstract

The study evaluated the Regulation to Prevent and Eradicate Violence Against Women in the Media to determine its effectiveness in terms of clarity, enforceability, and applicability. Through a critical documentary analysis, the regulation was examined in two stages: a detailed textual analysis of its provisions and a SWOT analysis to assess its practical applicability. Results indicated that, although the regulation clearly expressed a commitment to protecting women's rights, it contained ambiguities in key concepts such as "gender approach" and "non-stereotyped representation," which hindered interpretation and limited its effectiveness within the media context. The regulatory provisions used ambiguous language that suggested enforceability but lacked precise guidelines for implementation. It was concluded that the regulation should be revised to incorporate specific compliance indicators, methodological guidelines, and a clear monitoring framework. This would allow media organizations to apply the regulations consistently and reduce resistance to adoption. Periodic reviews were also recommended to enhance applicability and alignment with international standards.