Measuring the Prevalence of Online Violence against Women
This interactive report uses clear infographics to present an overview of online violence and how it affects women.
Globally, 85% of women experience online violence. That's the finding of a study that explored online violence in eighty-six countries. The research included women who have experienced such violence personally, those who know someone who has experienced it, and those who have witnessed it.
Online violence has consequences and often goes underreported. It can harm women’s wellbeing. Online violence can also relate to other forms of violence. Fifty-four percent of women knew their perpetrators, and seventy-four percent were concerned that the violence could escalate offline. Additionally, online violence against women contributes to the online digital divide and limits the diversity of online perspectives and experiences.
Younger generations are more likely to report personal experiences of online violence. Forty-five percent of Gen Z and millennials personally experienced online violence.
Online violence occurs at higher rates in regions that have more gender inequality. These include the Middle East and Latin America and the Caribbean. Of the tactics for online violence, cyber-harassment, misinformation and defamation, and hate speech occur most often.
Too few countries are working to develop policies that address online violence. Furthermore, these policies often respond to violence rather than prevent it. While women can take steps to protect themselves in choosing where to post and what to share, we need policies that address online violence as a systemic issue.
The internet presents a double-edged sword for women. On the one hand, it provides vital spaces for women seeking expression and opportunity. On the other, it’s increasingly a vector for abusers targeting women. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened this situation as women spend more time online, increasing their exposure to threats.
SOURCE: The Economist: Intelligence Unit • LAST UPDATED: March 1, 2021
