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This week, I had the privilege of attending the UN UPF meeting on gender equity and cyber-harassment—a profoundly impactful experience that resonated deeply with me on a personal level. Having faced challenges in this area firsthand, I was reminded of how critical it is to create safer, more equitable digital spaces for everyone.

The discussions were both eye-opening and inspiring, as participants from around the globe came together to share insights and solutions for combating this pervasive issue. From policymakers to advocates, the collective commitment to addressing gender-based online violence and fostering inclusivity was nothing short of motivating. This meeting was a powerful reminder of the urgent need for systemic change—both in shaping policies and transforming workplace cultures to ensure digital safety.

The Growing Concern of Cyber-Harassment and Gender-Based Online Violence

The rise of digital platforms has created new opportunities for connection, communication, and collaboration. Yet, it has also brought with it a surge in technology-facilitated gender-based violence. Women, girls, and marginalized groups are disproportionately targeted by online harassment, doxxing, cyberstalking, and hate speech. According to a 2021 UN Women study, 60% of women internet users in the Arab States region reported exposure to online violence, and in Europe, women are 27 times more likely than men to face harassment online.

This type of violence doesn’t just exist in the digital realm—it has real-world consequences. Victims of online harassment often face mental health challenges, professional setbacks, and a silencing of their voices in public spaces. For women in the public eye, such as journalists and politicians, online abuse can lead to self-censorship or withdrawal from public discourse altogether. These effects are particularly severe for young women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and women from marginalized communities.

Global Efforts to Address Digital Violence

The UN and its partners are actively working to combat gender-based violence in digital spaces. Initiatives like UN Women’s “Generation Equality” campaign aim to foster accountability among digital platforms and governments while promoting inclusive policies to prevent online harassment. Similarly, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has supported innovative projects like Project Rosetta, which uses technology to track and combat online sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Awareness campaigns are also playing a crucial role. For example, in Turkey, UNFPA partnered with local organizations to produce the country’s first digital violence report and launch public education initiatives. In Asia and the Pacific, youth-led organizations have developed toolkits to educate young people on preventing technology-facilitated gender-based violence.

A Call for Systemic Change

While these efforts are commendable, there is still much work to be done. Gender equity and digital safety require systemic change at every level—from workplace culture to global policy. Organizations must prioritize creating safe digital spaces, enforce anti-harassment policies, and hold perpetrators accountable. Furthermore, empowering women and marginalized groups to participate in the creation and regulation of technology is essential to building a more inclusive digital future.

How Can You Contribute?

As individuals and organizations, we all have a role to play in advancing digital safety and gender equity. From advocating for better policies to fostering inclusive environments, every effort counts. I encourage you to reflect on this question: How is your organization addressing digital safety?

Share your insights in the comments below—let’s learn from one another and work together to create a world where everyone can thrive, both online and offline.

Let’s keep the momentum going for real, lasting change. Together, we can make a difference.

GenderEquity #CyberHarassment #DigitalSafety #InclusiveLeadership #TogetherForChange

References:

1. United Nations Population Fund: 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
2. UN Women: Creating Safe Digital Spaces Free of Trolls, Doxing, and Hate Speech
3. United Nations: Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

Aremuorin is a multi-award-winning artist, writer, and humanitarian, known for his unique fusion of music, writing, and advocacy. With a focus on empowerment and social justice, his work aims to inspire, educate, and uplift communities worldwide.

Aremuorin has been honored with numerous accolades, including awards in the UK, USA, and Africa, and holds two honorary doctorate degrees for his contributions to both the arts and humanitarian work. His artistry goes beyond entertainment, as he uses his platform to bring attention to issues of mental health, social change, and cultural pride.

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