Pagtugon sa Karahasan na Nakabatay sa Kasarian na Pinapadali ng Teknolohiya

Defining Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence

The discussion began with an overview of technology-facilitated gender-based violence, highlighting its various forms, including cyberbullying, online harassment, sextortion, child pornography, and online trafficking. These violent behaviors disproportionately affect women and girls, with statistics indicating that 85% of women and girls globally have witnessed online violence, and nearly 40% have experienced it personally. Such violence has severe emotional, psychological, and physical impacts on survivors, underlining the urgency of addressing this issue.

Insights from Uganda: Edith Atim

Mrs. Edith Atim, a human rights lawyer from Uganda, provided a detailed account of technology-facilitated gender-based violence in her country. According to statistics from UN Women, one in three women in Uganda has experienced online violence. Most victims are women journalists who face various forms of harassment, including online stalking and cyberbullying. Edith emphasized the need for awareness and action interventions, highlighting limited digital literacy as a significant factor contributing to TF-GBV. She called for strengthened frameworks and the involvement of tech companies to mitigate this issue.

In Uganda, digital literacy training led by organizations like the Women and Girl Child Development Association at ang Forum for Women in Democracy teach women about TF-GBV and self-protection. These trainings include privacy tips and reporting platforms like SAUTI-116, including a Uganda Police Force number. Social media campaigns can also further raise awareness and equip women with skills to combat online harassment. Collaboration with technology companies also helps address online GBV effectively.

Tanzania’s Approach: Dr. Katanta Simwanza

Dr. Katanta Simwanza from Tanzania discussed the dual nature of technology, noting its potential to both empower and harm. He provided examples of innovative interventions in Tanzania, such as the “Sheria  Kiganjani” app (translated; The Law in Your Palm), which allows individuals to report incidents of GBV via a mobile number. This app triages cases and directs victims to appropriate services. Dr. Simwanza also shared a success story involving a young girl who used a mobile tracking system to report ongoing abuse, leading to swift action and support from authorities. He stressed the importance of behavior change models and digital tools in enhancing GBV prevention and response. Learn more about Tanzania’s Plan of action to end Violence Against Women.

Rwanda’s Perspective: Annonciata Mukayitete

Annonciata Mukayitete from Rwanda highlighted the increasing internet and mobile phone usage in her country, noting the significant challenges posed by social-cultural norms. She focused on the vulnerabilities of sexual minorities, who face severe online harassment, cyberstalking, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, doxxing, and hate speech. During her presentation, Annonciata referenced a report, Decoding TF-GBV by Generation-G partnership, about TF-GBV from 7 countries including Rwanda and Uganda in the East Africa region. 

Annonciata called for more robust legal frameworks and the inclusion of TF-GBV in national GBV laws, advocating for the protection and empowerment of marginalized groups.

Download the presentation slides.

Insights from Kenya: Tonny Olela

Tonny Olela from Kenya provided an overview of technology-facilitated gender-based violence statistics in his country and discussed the various ways individuals use social media. He highlighted various forms of online sexual exploitation and abuse, detailed in the call-out box above. Tonny emphasized the need for awareness and education on these issues to prevent individuals from falling victim to such crimes. He shared tips for safe internet use and resources for victims of online harassment.  Learn more about Tonny’s tips in his presentation slides.

Moving Forward: Collaborative Efforts and Solutions

The webinar underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing TF-GBV. Participants were encouraged to share their thoughts and definitions of TF-GBV, contributing to a richer understanding of the issue. The panelists stressed the need for comprehensive approaches, involving governments, tech companies, and civil society organizations.

Webinar Q&A

Phidiliah Rose moderated the Question and Answer portion of the webinar. Here are some of the questions addressed:

Konklusyon

The webinar highlighted the complex and pervasive nature of TF-GBV, emphasizing the need for multi-faceted solutions. By sharing experiences and insights, the panelists provided a roadmap for addressing this issue at both national and international levels. Continued dialogue, innovative interventions, and collaborative efforts are essential to create a safer digital environment for everyone, particularly women and girls.