Tech-facilitated GBV

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pervasive issue that affects millions of people in Pakistan and around the world. Women and marginalised groups suffer almost all of the violence, and despite advances in education, social awareness and legal reforms, the alarming prevalence of GBV highlights deep-rooted societal challenges that demand urgent and concerted action. In many ways, 21st-century technology and social media have worsened the problem.

Recent statistics from the Digital Rights Foundation shed light on the gravity of the situation, revealing over 3,171 complaints of tech-facilitated GBV in a single year. Cyber harassment topped the list of complaints, illustrating a troubling shift in how abuse is perpetrated in the digital age.

The anonymity offered by online platforms has created a fertile ground for violence, particularly against women, who disproportionately suffer from digital threats, including the release of real or manipulated images and video — a problem that has gotten exponentially worse as artificial intelligence platforms have become more accessible.

Unfortunately, societal attitudes often exacerbate the problem, leading to victim-blaming and inadequate support for survivors. Meanwhile, for the few victims willing to risk publicising what happened to them - due to lax enforcement of privacy laws — it remains difficult to punish the offenders because the wheels of justice remain a creaky mess.

Efforts to combat GBV must address not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes. Policymakers must strengthen laws, uphold digital security and ensure that survivors can access necessary support without stigma or fear. Investment in digital literacy — possibly including social media restrictions for young children - and gender-sensitive training for law enforcement can also help equip communities to recognise and respond to violence more effectively.