Date of Graduation

Spring 5-18-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS)

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

International Studies

First Advisor

Dana Zartner

Second Advisor

Olivier Bercault

Abstract

In contemporary society, social media platforms have emerged as powerful tools for advocacy and activism. This thesis explores the potential of Instagram in raising awareness and fostering dialogue around workplace equity for women in Belgium. Inspired by influential women's advocacy accounts, I embarked on a journey to fill a noticeable gap in the digital landscape – the absence of Belgian-centric content addressing workplace empowerment for women. Grounded in the unique intersections of Belgian national policies, European Union directives, and global socio-economic dynamics, this capstone delves into the multifaceted challenges faced by Belgian women in the workplace.

Through critical historical analysis and examination of contemporary barriers such as biases, stereotypes, harassment, and work-life balance issues, the thesis provides a comprehensive understanding of the complexities shaping women's experiences in the Belgian labor market. Utilizing Instagram as a medium for sharing content, I present a curated account, "vrouwENwerk | BEyondTheGlassCeiling," designed to educate, empower, and reimagine workplace culture for Belgian women. Strategic decisions regarding platform choice, visual branding, multilingual approach, and messaging methodology are outlined, with sample posts illustrating key themes.

The conclusion reflects on the process of creating the Instagram page and offers insights for leveraging Instagram to drive social change. Key lessons include the importance of consulting diverse perspectives, clearly defining focus and goals, and connecting the present to the past. The conclusion also emphasizes the imperative need to challenge ingrained workplace norms that perpetuate inequality. The tripartite aim of "vrouwENwerk | BEyondTheGlassCeiling" – to educate, empower, and reimagine – sets the stage for a community poised to advocate for systemic change and envision a more equitable future for women in the Belgian workplace.

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