Online Reporter
Dr Murudo L. Kamhara-Mutape
When we hear the term gender-based violence (GBV), many of us inevitably picture a woman battered and bruised, a stark image of physical assault.
But how often do we consider the unseen forms of violence, including those that permeate our digital lives?
In our modern world, our interactions increasingly occur online.
This has seen digital violence emerging as a significant and often overlooked aspect of GBV. This includes online harassment, cyberbullying and the spread of harmful stereotypes that disproportionately affect women and girls.
It has become a norm to hear disrespectful, unruly or derogatory remarks being made against women and girls.
Sometimes it is an attack on their choices, and at other times, an attack on their very being. While physical abuse may leave visible scars, social pain and the psychological impact of digital violence can be equally devastating, often leaving victims feeling isolated and vulnerable.
The theme of this year’s campaign, “Unite to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls”, serves as a vital reminder that the fight against GBV must include the digital sphere.
Social media platforms and online spaces can easily turn into breeding grounds for abuse, where women are targets of threats, stalking and doxxing (publishing of private information about a particular individual on the internet, typically with malicious intent).
Such acts not only infringe on their safety and autonomy, but also silence them and diminish their participation in society.
How often do we stop to think about our online behaviour? When we type a snarly comment and hit send, do we consider the implications of our words?
Every hurtful remark perpetuates an environment that normalises hostility and, ultimately, violence.
Our digital interactions can either contribute to a culture of respect or help foster an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.
The ripple effects of digital violence can be profound, including significant stress and anxiety for victims.
The constant fear of harassment can create a toxic environment where individuals feel unsafe expressing themselves or engaging in online discourse.
Victims may find themselves second-guessing their interactions or avoiding certain platforms altogether, further isolating them from their communities and support networks. Worst case scenario? Lives are lost! It is imperative that individuals navigate the digital landscape cautiously to reduce the risk of digital GBV.
Here are a few pointers:
Strengthen privacy settings by limiting who can see your information on social media and create complex passwords and change them regularly.
Be cautious with personal information and avoid sharing sensitive details online. Consider the potential consequences of what you share; certain information can be used maliciously.
Report and block abusers by utilising platform features to report harassment and block users who make you feel unsafe.
Control your online presence by regularly reviewing your digital footprint and removing unwanted or outdated content that could be misused.
Educate yourself on digital safety. Learn about online safety practices and signs of harassment. Addressing digital violence requires a collective effort.
It is not enough to wait for victims to come forward; we must all take responsibility for our language and interactions.
Engaging in respectful discourse, promoting empathy and standing against harmful behaviours are crucial steps each of us can take. Moreover, it is vital to have safety nets in place when one experiences digital GBV.
There are several ways to navigate life afterwards. Talking to trusted friends, family or mental health professionals is important for emotional support.
GBV victims can also document the abuse by keeping records of abusive messages for reporting purposes.
Seeking professional help and considering therapy or counselling for trauma recovery. Establish boundaries by setting clear limits on your online interactions and protecting your space from unwanted engagement.
Advocate and educate others by using your experience to raise awareness about digital GBV and help others understand how to protect themselves.
As we reflect on these 16 Days of Activism, let us commit to recognising and combating the unseen forms of GBV.
Every action counts; each respectful interaction contributes to a larger movement to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
Together, we can create a future where respect and dignity prevail, both online and offline.
Dr Murudo L. Kamhara-Mutape is psychiatry resident and principal medical practitioner. Feedback: [email protected]/[email protected]
Bongani Ndlovu