Dear Editor,
The advancement of digital technology is growing exponentially. With increased access to the internet, social media platforms, and online learning, many more opportunities are being created for women and girls. Whilst there are numerous benefits that come along with technological advancement, women and girls are even more vulnerable to new forms of disparities and inequalities. Despite all the odds, women continue to make significant contributions within the field of technology. As we observe International Women’s Day, March 8th, 2023, under the theme – “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” we must reflect and take action against all forms of exploitation women and girls are facing within the digital field. Emphasis must be placed on the pervasive threat of technology facilitated gender-based violence that plagues women and girls in this digital age.
According to UN Women, “technology facilitated gender-based violence is any act of violence committed, assisted or aggravated by the use of ICT on the basis of gender.” Online gender-based violence against women and girls is oftentimes connected to offline violence and usually includes sexual harassment and stalking which is becoming more prevalent as the digital world expands. While the violence may take place virtually, it can still have the same effect as offline violence and can cause extreme tangible harm to women and girls. These range from physical (self-harm), psychological, social or economic effects. This type of violence against women and girls doesn’t stop when they log off from their virtual space, but can also lead to face to face interactions and therefore exposes them to trafficking and other forms of abuse.
As digital technology continues to be a crucial part of our lives, the online violence that women and girls are faced with prevents them from freely expressing themselves online and also threatens their advancement into the tech field. For women with disabilities and the LGBTQ+ community the risk against online violence and discrimination is greater. Most alarmingly, children, especially girls, are more vulnerable than before to online sexual predators. Today’s digital technology makes it easier for perpetrators to identify and make contact with their victims. In the digital world, perpetrators are able to create, post and share exploitative content that not only harms children but also encourages others to commit offenses. Parents in today’s world need to be more aware of the use of the gadgets and how to monitor their children’s use to reduce exposure to platforms where predators are waiting for their next victim.
Like all other forms of gender-based violence, online violence is terribly underreported which only intensifies the need for urgent action. As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2023, we call for urgent action to be taken to eliminate technology facilitated gender-based violence against women and girls. Legislative framework must be established with significant emphasis placed on the rights and well-being of women and girls. We call on activists and decision makers to place more effort into making the digital world a more inclusive, equitable and safer one, for our women and girls.
Sincerely,
ChildLinK
We Care Guyana
Educators Pride
Chan Spotlight Initiative
Women and Gender Equality Commission
Kean Trotman – Attorney-at-law
United Bricklayers
Patentia Achievers
Ann Greene – Retired CPA Director
Spotlight Initiative
Help and Shelter
