Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024: UAE Council Launches Guidelines Against Online Gender Violence

UAE Gender Balance Council Unveils Landmark Guidelines to Combat Online Gender Violence

Dubai: The Global Council for Sustainable Development Goal 5 and the UAE Gender Balance Council, in partnership with international consulting firm Kearney, released detailed guidelines on Wednesday during the second day of the Global Women’s Forum Dubai 2024, marking a major step in addressing technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV).

The document, titled Gender-Based Violence Policy Guidelines, offers a strategic framework for addressing TFGBV—a growing concern in the digital era. It calls upon technology companies and digital service providers to develop multidimensional strategies targeting the root causes of gender-based violence in online spaces while balancing the essential freedoms of expression, access to information, and participation in digital communities.

The Prevalence of TFGBV: Startling Statistics

The global impact of TFGBV is undeniable. Studies reveal that:

• 35% of women have directly experienced technology-facilitated gender-based violence and harassment.
• 65% of women know someone within their personal or professional networks who has faced such violence.
• 85% of women have witnessed TFGBV incidents in online forums or digital spaces.

These numbers underline the urgency of addressing this pervasive issue, which continues to discourage women from fully engaging in digital platforms, professional environments, and public spheres.

Key Elements of the Guidelines

The guidelines aim to provide a comprehensive reference for technology firms to embed safety measures within their products, services, and digital ecosystems. The scope includes:

1. Defining TFGBV: Forms such as online harassment, cyberstalking, and doxing are clearly outlined.
2. Prevention Mechanisms: Proactive measures to deter potential perpetrators.
3. Reporting Mechanisms: Streamlined systems for victims to report incidents.
4. Support Resources: Access to counseling, legal aid, and recovery programs.
5. Intersectionality: Recognizing the compounded effects of race, ethnicity, and other social factors.
6. Digital Literacy and Education: Raising awareness about safe online practices.
7. Professional Training: Equipping tech professionals to respond effectively to TFGBV.
8. Community Engagement: Encouraging partnerships and dialogues to promote shared best practices.
9. Research and Data Collection: Establishing evidence-based approaches to policy development.
10. Adaptation to Technological Trends: Ensuring guidelines remain relevant as technology evolves.

Voices from the Leadership

Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, emphasized the transformative potential of these guidelines. “As technology continues to reshape our lives, digital platforms must foster inclusion and progress. These guidelines offer a practical framework for technology companies to address TFGBV while maintaining user rights and freedoms,” she said.

The UAE Gender Balance Council’s Secretary-General, Mouza Al Suwaidi, emphasized the initiative’s collaborative character. “We are establishing the foundation for a safe and just digital future by collaborating with leaders in the sector, legislators, and international specialists. These recommendations tackle current issues while opening the door for long-term, viable solutions,” she said.

A Global Perspective
Elena Siegel, Partner at Kearney, underscored the international relevance of the guidelines. “The rapid advancement of technology brings immense opportunities, but it also heightens the risks of TFGBV. These guidelines align with the UAE’s global leadership in gender equality, offering a customizable roadmap to foster safety, transparency, and accountability across digital ecosystems,” she explained.

Building a Safer Digital Future
The Gender-Based Violence Policy Guidelines are poised to set a global standard for combating TFGBV. By addressing the multifaceted nature of the issue and providing actionable solutions, the UAE Gender Balance Council is driving forward its commitment to gender equality, empowering women, and ensuring safer, more inclusive digital spaces for all.