Online SGBV: A Silent Threat and a Path to Healing
In today’s digital age, the threat of gender-based violence has found a new battleground: our online spaces. Acts of online Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) which ranges from cyberstalking to the non-consensual spread of intimate images inflict deep emotional scars.
What is Online SGBV?
Online SGBV takes many forms, each a violation of dignity and safety:
– Cyberstalking: Picture this: an anonymous account sending you hundreds of threatening messages, tracking your every online move. It’s persistent, unwanted attention that can leave you feeling trapped and afraid, even in your own home.
– Online Harassment: This is the digital equivalent of a public shaming. Trolling, doxxing (exposing your private information), or waves of hate speech flood your inbox or social feeds. It’s hostile, repeated, and designed to break your spirit.
– Spread of Non-Consensual Images: Often called “revenge porn,” this is the ultimate betrayal, intimate photos or videos shared without your consent. One moment of trust becomes a lifetime of violation, shattering your sense of security.
These aren’t just virtual problems, they lead to real-world pain, including anxiety, fear, and isolation. Survivors often feel trapped, their lives disrupted by a threat that follows them everywhere.
A Victim’s Story
One example is Aisha (name changed for privacy), a young woman from Lagos. After ending a relationship, her ex-partner posted intimate photos of her online without her consent. The aftermath was devastating: strangers sent hateful messages, her privacy evaporated, and she lived in constant dread of every new notification. “I felt like my life wasn’t mine anymore,” she said.
The Ripple Effects of Online SGBV
The impact of online SGBV extends far beyond the initial act. Survivors may struggle with mental health challenges like depression or withdraw from online spaces entirely, losing access to opportunities and support networks. In severe cases, it can cost them jobs or relationships, leaving them to rebuild from a place of profound loss.
How the REST FOR HER PROJECT Responds
The REST FOR HER PROJECT is dedicated to combating this crisis through awareness, counseling, referrals, empowering survivors and challenging the attitudes that fuel violence against women.
– Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities about online SGBV to prevent it and dismantle harmful norms.
– Counseling: Providing a safe space for survivors to heal emotionally and reclaim their strength.
– Referrals: Linking women to legal aid and other resources to restore their security.
You have a role to play:
– Report Abuse: Call out harmful behavior online to stop it in its tracks.
– Offer Support: Show survivors they’re not alone with kindness and understanding.
– Get Involved: Visit the REST FOR HER PROJECT website to volunteer, learn more, and amplify our mission.
Building a Safer Tomorrow
The REST FOR HER PROJECT envisions a future where women and girls can navigate the digital world without fear. By supporting survivors and shifting societal attitudes, we’re paving the way for change. Join us in making that vision a reality.
