Cyber space threatens efforts to protect Women rights

By Charles Katabalwa

16^th Nov 2023                                                                                                                               

Women activists are concerned about the high incidents of violence against women in the cyber space arguing that online violence not only infringes on women’s rights to freely express themselves but also perpetuates a culture of fear and intimidation.

In the 2022 report by Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) shows that 92% of women in Uganda have experienced cyber harassment on different media platforms.

The report further says women are increasingly becoming targets to online violence including cyber bullying, harassment, threats and the violations are often fueled by sexism and the desire to silence female voices in the online space.

They stress the urgent need for Government, society, internet service providers, CSO’s and technology companies to take concrete steps to address this issue and ensure a safe online environment for all.

We captured views of Sandra Aceng, the Executive Director Women of Uganda Network, Carol Nyagoma Executive Director Warm hearts foundation and Elizabeth Kemigisha programs manager FIDA.

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