Blog by Elizabeth Peterson, 2024–2026 North Atlantic Region Governor from Soroptimist International of the Americas, Connecticut Shoreline Club at UNCSW69 

The rapid advancement of digital technology presents both opportunities and risks for women and girls, particularly those in marginalised communities. At the recent CSW69 panel discussion, ‘How Are Digital Rights for Women and Girls in Marginalized Groups Going?’ experts from Bolivia, Somalia, and Uganda explored the challenges their countries face and potential solutions to bridge the gender digital divide. Facilitated by Ms. Maya Marzotto, the discussion provided valuable insights into the intersection of technology, gender equality, and human rights. 

The Gender Digital Divide and Technologically Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TF-GBV) 

One of the key themes of the discussion was the persistent gender digital divide. Women in marginalised communities are 15 per cent less likely than men to use mobile devices, a statistic that is even more pronounced in lower-income demographics. This lack of access limits economic opportunities, educational advancement, and social participation for women and girls. Additionally, technology has exacerbated gender-based violence through cyber harassment, online blackmail, and AI-assisted misinformation, reinforcing gender inequalities in both digital and real-world spaces. 

The panellists emphasised the need for a holistic understanding of the lived experiences of women in these communities. Solutions must go beyond policy discussions and instead incorporate structural changes, digital education, and safe online spaces to protect women from TF-GBV. 

Bolivia: Addressing Political Harassment and Online Safety 

Ms. LuAn Mendez, the panellist from Bolivia, shared that the country currently lacks legislation to combat TF-GBV. Women in politics, in particular, face harassment, threats, and even physical violence aimed at undermining their credibility. There are also widespread restrictions on access to technology, limiting participation in digital spaces. 

However, Bolivia has made progress by leveraging international legal frameworks to draft policies that address TF-GBV. Feminist networks and collaborations have been instrumental in advocating for digital rights and providing support for victims. Some of the most promising strategies include: 

• Legal, technological, and psychological support for victims of TF-GBV.
• Safe spaces and community support beyond legal measures, fostering collective healing.
• Public-private collaborations to increase digital entrepreneurship opportunities for women.
• Digital education initiatives to reduce the gender gap in technology usage.

 

Ms. Mendez highlighted the importance of international cooperation, particularly learning from Somalia’s strategies in addressing TF-GBV. She also emphasised the need for horizontal networks among feminist organisations to create joint responses to online violence. 

Somalia: Building Digital Literacy and Safe Online Communities 

Since 1991, Somalia has faced significant political instability, leading to high levels of displacement. This has contributed to a lack of digital infrastructure, limiting financial opportunities and access to technology. Many women in rural areas struggle with digital illiteracy, making them more vulnerable to online threats. 

Despite these challenges, Somalia has made strides in digital rights through: 

• Online safety classes for women to protect them from cyber harassment.
• Safe online communities with strong support from private-sector partnerships.
• Women’s leadership training through Somalia Non-State Actors (SONSA) to empower female voices in the digital space.
• Public-private sector collaborations aimed at increasing internet access and digital literacy.

 

The Somali model demonstrates that digital education and community-based support can be powerful tools in bridging the gender digital divide. By ensuring women have access to digital safety training, they can navigate online spaces more securely. 

Uganda: Bridging the Infrastructure and Education Gap 

Uganda faces unique challenges related to digital rights, primarily due to inadequate infrastructure and high costs associated with internet access. Many citizens, especially in rural areas, lack access to electricity and cannot afford mobile devices. Additionally, the country’s digital literacy rate is low, with language barriers further restricting access to online spaces. 

Ms. Yasmin Ahmed, the Ugandan panellist, pointed out several critical issues: 

• Extreme levels of online harassment targeting women in politics, discouraging female participation in government.
• Celebration of violent online content, making it harder to challenge cyber abuse.
• Gender-based disparities in interest to pursue STEM education, leading to fewer women pursuing careers in technology.

 

To address these challenges, Uganda is working on: 

• Digital literacy programmes in schools and libraries.
• Collaboration with major corporations to increase digital access and training.
• Personal data protection offices to safeguard online users.
• Policy-driven accountability measures for technology companies and government agencies.

 

Ms. Ahmed emphasised the need for female role models in STEM to encourage more girls to enter technology fields. She also called for increased regulation and accountability from both public and private stakeholders to ensure digital spaces are safe for women and girls. 

Moving Forward: Global Collaboration and Advocacy 

The panel discussion made it clear that digital rights for women and girls in marginalized communities require urgent attention. Key takeaways from the conversation include: 

• Governments must formalise digital rights to protect women and girls from online harassment and discrimination.
• Public-private partnerships are essential in expanding digital access and education.
• Survivor-centered approaches should be prioritised, ensuring victims of TF-GBV receive legal and psychological support.
• More women’s leadership training and mentorship programmes are needed to encourage female participation in STEM and digital policy-making.
• International cooperation is necessary to address cross-border challenges in digital rights.

 

As Soroptimists, we play a vital role in advocating for women’s rights worldwide. By supporting digital literacy programmes, promoting policy changes, and fostering safe online communities, we can help bridge the gender digital divide and create a more inclusive digital future for all women and girls. 

Let’s continue to amplify the voices of women in technology and push for a world where digital spaces are safe, accessible, and empowering for everyone.