From hate speech to non-consensual distribution of intimate media, many forms of gender-based violence are being committed in the digital space. Some people may disregard the consequences of online gender-based violence (OGBV) due to its virtual nature, but in reality, OGBV causes real harm to women and children.
From November 25 to December 12, FMA reiterated the gravity of OGBV and the need for lawmakers and tech platforms to work together on curbing this kind of violence against women. From presenting alarming statistics of human trafficking to sharing cybersecurity tips for women, here are the highlights of FMA’s 18-day campaign to end violence against women.
As the threat of gender-based violence looms online, adolescent girls tend to be one of the most vulnerable groups to tech-facilitated violence. In a 2021 survey done by Plan International, the organization noted that 58 percent of girls have experienced harassment and abuse online. Of these girls, 24 percent believe that they are not safe in the offline world.
Among the many forms of online gender-based violence, producing and spreading gender disinformation is one of the most common ways used to inflict harm upon women and other gender minorities. In itself, gender disinformation also comes in various forms. As bad actors’ try to discredit and malign women, they often perpetuate misogynist ideas, use manipulated images, or even create false information to attack the character of their victim.
Female leaders such as former Vice President Leni Robredo of the Philippines and U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris have frequently been the targets of gender disinformation—coordinated efforts to spread false narratives, stereotypes, and personal attacks to diminish their credibility and effectiveness as leaders. This form of systemic bias leverages deeply ingrained gender stereotypes, portraying women as weak, overly emotional, or incapable of handling leadership roles.
Such tactics do not only damage the reputations of individual women leaders but also perpetuate a culture of misogyny, dissuading other women from entering politics or seeking positions of power.
As online crimes surge, so does sextortion—a form of exploitation that preys on vulnerable individuals, including girls and gender minorities. Perpetrators use manipulation and blackmail to coerce victims into sharing explicit content or money, leaving them feeling trapped and powerless.
If you or someone you know experiences sextortion, remember: you are not alone, and help is available. Stay calm and avoid giving in to the demands. Document every interaction as evidence, and report the incident to authorities or cybercrime units as soon as possible. Together, we can stand against this growing threat and create a safer online space for everyone.
