International Day for Combating Digital Violence Women Behind Screens, Screaming in Silence

By: Rabaa Dahfoos

The International Day for Combating Digital Violence Against Women is a global occasion that highlights one of the most widespread forms of abuse in the online space, especially as digital platforms become increasingly intertwined with daily life. While technology offers vast opportunities for learning, work, and expression, it has also become a landscape where many women face various types of threats and exploitation.

Digital violence includes harassment through messages, blackmail, threats, privacy breaches, the sharing of images without consent, and orchestrated smear campaigns. International human rights organizations report a notable rise in these practices, particularly in countries experiencing conflict or weak legal protections—conditions that make women more vulnerable to harm and often discourage them from seeking help.

In Sudan, concerns over digital violence are growing amid the rapid spread of smartphones and limited awareness of digital safety. Many women choose silence, fearing social stigma or the lack of effective reporting mechanisms. Activists and experts, meanwhile, continue to call for clearer legislation and specialized units to investigate cybercrimes. Women-led initiatives also stress the importance of integrating “digital safety” into community awareness programs to ensure that virtual spaces are safe for everyone.

On this day, both local and international organizations emphasize that combating digital violence is not the responsibility of victims alone. It requires collaboration among government institutions, civil society, social media platforms, and the media. Recognizing the seriousness of the issue is only the first step, followed by the need for stronger legal frameworks, sustained awareness efforts, and support for women facing these violations.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a digital environment that respects women’s dignity and enables them to use technology with confidence—free from fear, harassment, or intimidation—thus enhancing their participation in public life and securing their full rights in both the real and virtual worlds.