The Rising Threat of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Politics

Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) encompasses acts committed using digital tools that result in various forms of harm, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic. The United Nations defines TFGBV as any act that infringes on rights and freedoms through information communication technologies. This form of violence is increasingly prevalent, with research indicating that up to 60% of women globally have experienced such abuse. Common manifestations include doxing, deepfake abuse, sexual harassment, and intimidation, which can escalate from online environments to real-world violence.

The Guardian

The issue of TFGBV is not confined to any single country; it is a global phenomenon. A study by the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security revealed that 38% of women worldwide reported experiencing TFGBV, while 85% have either experienced or witnessed it. Women in political roles are particularly vulnerable, facing heightened levels of violence aimed at silencing their voices and preserving male-dominated political structures. During the 2024 elections, women were disproportionately targeted by gendered disinformation and other forms of digital abuse, which poses a significant threat to democratic participation.

The Guardian

In Kenya, the situation is emblematic of the broader global trend. Female political figures, such as Governor Susan Kihika, have faced severe online and offline abuse, including calls for their removal based on personal characteristics like dual citizenship. The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (Kewopa) has defended Kihika, arguing that the scrutiny she faces reflects a double standard, as male leaders are seldom subjected to similar criticism. The feminist collective Pollicy documented that 56% of female candidates experienced online violence during the 2022 elections, compared to 35% of their male counterparts.

The Guardian

The ramifications of TFGBV extend beyond individual experiences; they threaten the integrity of democratic processes. According to Amnesty International, 76% of women who encounter online abuse alter their social media usage, with nearly a third refraining from expressing their opinions on certain issues. This silencing of voices not only affects individual aspirations but also leads to fewer women in political office, creating a mentorship gap for future generations.

The Guardian

Despite existing legal frameworks in countries like Kenya and Ghana, enforcement remains a challenge, particularly when violations involve foreign nationals or cross-border digital platforms. Experts emphasize that laws alone are insufficient; they must be enforced by authorities knowledgeable about emerging technologies. Governments are urged to transition from passive observers to active participants in combating digital violence by enhancing legal frameworks, investing in research, and fostering partnerships with technology companies to protect human rights and democratic processes.

The Guardian

• “Healthy democracies depend on women enjoying full access to technology without fear that it will be used against them.” — Anonymous Expert

The Guardian

• “Online abuse can be devastating to the individual but the weaponisation of technology against women is not just a private crisis – it is a growing democratic threat.” — Anonymous Analyst

The Guardian

• “They must be enforced by officers with a strong understanding of emerging technologies.” — Anonymous Advocate

The Guardian

As the digital landscape evolves, so too must our strategies to combat TFGBV. Ensuring safe digital spaces for women is crucial for fostering healthy democracies and empowering future generations.

The Guardian