Abstracts Womens Studies

Women and genderqueer individuals in the Icelandic Music Industry, 2010 to 2024: Challenges and Opportunities

by Guðný Gígja Skjaldardóttir 1990- Unknown

This final project is submitted for a BA degree in Creative Industries at Bifröst University. The purpose and aim of the research are to examine the status of women and genderqueer individuals in the Icelandic music industry. The focus of this study is to identify possible changes that have occurred over the past decade, given the increased awareness of gender equality within the music industry and society as a whole. Furthermore, the study aims to identify the main challenges and opportunities for gender equality advocacy within the Icelandic music sector. The research is based on qualitative interviews, previous studies, theories from gender studies, and quantitative data. Key concepts discussed include: the gender system, cultural capital, women's spaces, stereotypes, and discourse. The study highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of the issue. The findings indicate that, despite significant progress toward gender equality in the music industry and increased participation by women and non-binary individuals, a gender imbalance persists. Male-dominated discourse, networks, and stereotypes continue to hinder equal opportunities within the sector. Additionally, grassroots and alternative scenes appear to be ahead of the mainstream in terms of gender equality and inclusivity. To achieve meaningful change, further analysis of the issue is essential, reflecting modern perspectives. Society has undergone rapid changes in the past decade, with social media playing a key role. Systematic actions are required, such as incorporating more gender studies into early education and increasing support for empowering spaces and initiatives.