From online harassment and bullying to the non-consensual sharing of images, technology-facilitated stalking, and hate-driven attacks, digital violence is evolving constantly and relentlessly.
Today marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, making the need for awareness, prevention, and action more urgent than ever. This year’s campaign focuses on ending digital violence, highlighting the importance of safe online spaces where all women and girls can express themselves freely and without fear.
Consequences of digital violence for victims
The lack of boundaries and oversight in digital environments allows perpetrators to remain anonymous, facilitates the rapid spread of misinformation or abusive content, and significantly hinders detection and accountability. At the same time, the impacts on victims of digital violence are profound and may vary depending on the form of violence and the individual’s circumstances. Key consequences may include emotional distress, withdrawal from public discourse, reduced social participation, and, in many cases, real risks to the victim’s physical safety.
Uniting for a safer and more inclusive digital world
The 16 Days of Activism call on all of us to unite our voices and efforts against all forms of gender-based violence. With this in mind, it is time to use digital tools not to reinforce existing inequalities, but to help create a safer, fairer, and more inclusive digital world for everyone.