The CybeSafe project aimed to address the pervasive issue of cyber gender-based violence, which inflicted physical, psychological, mental, and economic harm on victims. -We enhanced the digital literacy and empowerment of women to recognize and address cyber threats, empowering them to report incidents effectively. -We challenged and mitigated the social stigma surrounding victims of cyber gender-based violence, mainly through engagement with social media platforms where revictimization often occurred. -We supported women's rights organizations and facilitated consultations with victims to understand their needs and challenges better. -We increased public awareness of the diverse forms of cyber violence against women, highlighting the severity of the issue and promoting collective action. -We advocated for digital safety measures and best practices, equipping women with tools and strategies to protect themselves online. -We established safe online spaces where victims of cyber gender-based violence could seek support, share experiences, and access resources -We strengthened the skills and capacity of participating organizations to effectively address cyber gender-based violence.
We applied for this project in response to the pressing need to address the escalating issue of cyber harassment, particularly gender-based cyber violence, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. With the significant increase in global internet usage during lockdown measures, there has been a corresponding rise in negative digital behaviors, including online bullying, cyberstalking, hate speech, and public shaming. Research by the Council of Europe highlights the alarming trend of cyber violence against women, reflecting a broader societal challenge of gender-based violence rooted in inequality. Gender-based cyber violence, a phenomenon inconceivable decades ago, now affects an increasing number of women and girls, often intersecting with offline gender-based violence. Despite the prevalence of cyber violence, there is a dearth of comprehensive data and evidence, leading to underreporting and severe physical, psychological, and socio-economic impacts on victims. In response, our project established an information center to enhance knowledge, awareness, and support mechanisms for women experiencing cyber violence.