UN Warns of Escalating Digital Violence Against Women NOW

URGENT UPDATE: The United Nations has just issued a stark warning about the alarming rise of digital violence against women and girls, as reported in their new document, ‘Intensification of efforts to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls: technology-facilitated violence against women and girls.’ This development highlights the urgent need for action in an increasingly dangerous online environment where misogyny thrives.

According to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, over 5.5 billion people are now online, making it crucial to address the pervasive culture of sexism and harassment that women and girls face in digital spaces. “Violence against women and girls is increasingly experienced across the online and offline continuum,” notes Guterres.

The report reveals that digital violence has escalated significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as more women have shifted their lives online for work and social interaction. This situation has led to a surge in various forms of online harassment, including sexual harassment, stalking, and even direct sexual blackmail.

UN Women reported that 43% of women have received unwanted sexual images, while 38% encountered inappropriate communications, and 35% received insulting or hateful messages. These alarming statistics underline the severe emotional and psychological toll on victims, which can mirror the effects of offline violence.

Moreover, digital abuse often leads to a “chilling effect” on women’s public engagement. The report states that 30% of women journalists have self-censored on social media due to online gender-based violence, drastically limiting their voices and contributions. This suppression of expression can have far-reaching consequences for gender equality.

The report also highlights the disturbing trend of misogyny proliferating in online communities, particularly in the so-called “manosphere.” This loose network promotes harmful ideologies that oppose feminism and misrepresent men as victims, further perpetuating discriminatory attitudes. Guterres warns that perpetrators use digital platforms to spread hate speech and inflict gender-based harm.

UN Women identifies key groups within the manosphere, including Involuntary Celibates (INCELS) and Men’s Rights Activists (MRAs), which promote harmful stereotypes and misinformation. This environment is particularly dangerous for younger audiences, as studies show that members of Gen Z are disproportionately exposed to regressive ideas about gender roles.

As digital violence continues to escalate, the UN has called for urgent reforms within the technology sector. UN Women recommends increasing the representation of feminist technology experts to ensure safer online spaces and establishing strict codes of conduct on platforms to combat online abuse effectively.

Experts warn that without immediate action, the normalization of online misogyny could reverse hard-won gains in gender equality and further entrench harmful norms in society. This is a developing situation, and authorities underscore the need for a collaborative global response.

The UN’s call to action is clear: it is time for governments, tech companies, and communities to unite against digital violence. Keeping women safe online is not just a matter of policy but a crucial step towards achieving genuine gender equality.

Stay tuned for updates on this urgent issue as we track responses from governments and organizations worldwide.