WASHINGTON, DC — AS the world begins 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, this year’s focus is on the growing digital threats facing women.
With November 25 recognized as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, UN Secretary-General António Guterres is urging governments to criminalize digital violence and “strengthen support for survivors.”
His call comes amid a surge in deepfake videos and apps used to sexualize women and cause public harm. Describing violence against women and girls as a “global scourge,” Guterres warned that in today’s digital age, abuse is amplified by the speed and reach of technology.
“That is why online protection is the focus of this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women,” he said. “Online harassment, deepfakes, and hate speech are proliferating. Misogynistic content is moving from the margins to the mainstream.”
He noted that violence that begins online often spills into the real world — leading to stalking, abuse, and even femicide.
Meanwhile, the European Commission reiterated its stance, stating: "Gender-based violence is unacceptable. On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the European Union reaffirms its determination to end all forms of violence against women and girls and to ensure that everyone can live free from fear and harm.”
Globally, one in three women — roughly 700 million — experience gender-based violence. In St. Kitts and Nevis, concern has been growing since the onset of the pandemic.
“It has gone under-reported, and lots of it has to do with fear. A lot of people are afraid,” said Julie Charles. “And it's just not females who go through domestic violence, but males who go through domestic violence. And the males are afraid to report, because when they report, the authorities laugh. They say, boy, what are you doing here? Go back home, etc., etc.
“It has gone under-reported, and a lot of it has to do with fear,” said Julie Charles. “It’s not only women; but males also experience domestic violence. But men are often afraid to report it because when they do, authorities laugh. They say, 'boy, what are you doing here? Go back home', etc., etc."
While the government has noted a slight decrease in cases since the height of COVID-19, Charles stressed that domestic violence is not only physical — it includes emotional and financial abuse as well.
“You deserve to be happy. You deserve to live a full life,” she said. “And if someone in your life makes you uncomfortable or doesn’t create an environment where both of you can grow, then something is wrong.”
