Newsroom

MAKE STRONGER POLICIES TO SAFEGUARD WOMEN AND GIRLS IN ONLINE PLATFORMS - WOMEN URGED

Juba - South Sudan: A one-day roundtable discussion was held today in Juba as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, bringing together government officials, civil society representatives, youth leaders, and digital rights advocates. The event, organized by UN Women, centered on this year’s theme: “Protect Women and Girls from Digital Abuse and Exposition.”

The roundtable created a platform for open dialogue on the rising cases of online violence targeting women and girls, including cyberbullying, non-consensual sharing of personal content, digital harassment, and technology-facilitated exploitation. Participants emphasized that digital spaces while offering opportunities for expression and empowerment have increasingly become environments where women and girls face serious risks.

Speaking at the event, Delphine Serumaga UN Women representatives from underscored the urgent need for stronger policies, community awareness, and digital literacy to safeguard women and girls in online platforms.

“UN Women has highlighted the rise of digital violence as one of the fastest growing forms of abuse against women and girls. Online threats, stalking, defamation and manipulated images are becoming more common and these trends are increasingly reflected in South Sudan’s digital landscape. there is urgent need for stronger policies, community awareness, and digital literacy to safeguard women and girls in online platforms”, Delphine Serumaga said.

Throughout the discussions, participants shared experiences, challenges, and recommendations on how to strengthen legal frameworks, promote responsible online behavior, and support survivors of digital abuse. Calls were made for continued investment in public education, improved reporting mechanisms, and stronger accountability for those who perpetrate online harm.

The event concluded with a commitment from stakeholders to work together in advancing safe digital spaces and ensuring that women and girls can fully participate in the digital world without fear of abuse or exploitation.

The roundtable forms part of ongoing national activities aimed at raising awareness and mobilizing action during the 16 Days of Activism, an annual global campaign that runs from 25 November to 10 December.