Representation of Women's Position in Online News Coverage of Rape Cases: A Critical Discourse Analysis from Sara Mills' Perspective

This study aims to: (1) identify forms of sexual violence against women in the news texts of online media platforms Detik.com, Tribunnews.com, and Merdeka.com; and (2) analyze the status and position of women as represented in sexual violence news coverage by these media. This research adopts a qualitative descriptive approach using critical discourse analysis grounded in Sara Mills’ framework. The data were collected through documentation of rape-related news articles published throughout February 2025, focusing on the narrative construction of perpetrators and victims. Analysis emphasized the subject-object positioning and ideological implications embedded within the texts. The findings reveal that although various forms of sexual violence are reported, women are predominantly portrayed as passive objects with minimal narrative agency. Moreover, the language used often contains negative labeling and reinforces patriarchal structures. This study highlights the need for narrative transformation in media reporting to ensure more gender-sensitive and victim-centered journalism. The analysis provides practical contributions for media practitioners and raises critical awareness among the public regarding female representation in sexual violence discourse.