The Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media, in partnership with the international non-governmental organisation Search for Common Ground, organised an event as part of the SHE LEADS project. The project aims to create a safe digital environment for women and girls.
The roundtable's objective was to raise awareness about technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) among various civil society groups, media outlets, and government bodies.
TFGBV presents a new challenge for all countries, including Uzbekistan. While the internet and social media have opened new communication platforms, they've also become spaces where users often demean others based on gender stereotypes. Consequently, many women and girls fall victim to online bullying, blackmail, and illegal use of their personal data.
"Technology-facilitated gender-based violence takes various forms. Personal data, intimate photos, or videos may be shared online, and online harassment can occur. In some cases, AI is even used to create degrading content," noted Dharini Priscilla, leading gender consultant for the SHE LEADS project at Search for Common Ground.
The problem is exacerbated by the often anonymous nature of demeaning posts and comments. Experts at the roundtable noted that in such cases, holding bullies accountable becomes nearly impossible.
However, there are instances where the profile of the person committing online violence is open to all users. Even then, holding them accountable remains a formidable task. To address this issue, national legislation needs improvement.
Education is considered one of the most effective measures to tackle online harassment.
"It would be wrong to disconnect users from the online space. The modern world, especially the future, is unimaginable without internet access, social media profiles, and digital spaces. The wisest and most appropriate solution is to educate, explain, and contribute to creating an environment where technology-facilitated harassment and violence are unacceptable," said Jakhongir Azimov, director of the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media.
Attention was drawn to the fact that media professionals also need to enhance their knowledge about this issue and develop skills to counter it. As part of the SHE LEADS project, there are plans to implement a training system for digital stewards (online community moderators) who will be trained in best practices for preventing, protecting against, and responding to cases of TFGBV.
Roundtable participants emphasised the need to study international experiences in addressing TFGBV, improve national legislation, and consolidate efforts of all stakeholders to create a safe digital space, regardless of the user's gender.
