The project aimed to achieve three interconnected objectives focused on preventing GBV and promoting gender equality, especially in online spaces. First, we wanted to strengthen the capacities of the partner organizations by exchanging knowledge, tools, and practices in the areas of violence prevention, bystander intervention, and gender-transformative work. This objective was rooted in the belief that sustainable change starts with well-equipped professionals, and it laid the foundation for this collaboration and the development of new, shared methodologies. Second, we aimed to educate and empower youth workers and professionals who engage with young people. By offering training and practical resources, we wanted to create a broader, transnational network of practitioners capable of addressing online violence and discrimination effectively and inclusively. Finally, our goal was to engage and empower young people themselves to recognize, challenge, and respond to violence and harmful behaviors, particularly in online spaces. Through co-created educational programs and awareness campaigns, we promoted active bystander intervention and supported young people in becoming agents of change in their communities.
With the rise of digital technology, online violence, such as sexual harassment, bullying, and abuse, has become a growing concern, especially among young people. These experiences can have serious short- and long-term effects, including anxiety, depression, and isolation. Online harassment often reflects the same structural inequalities seen offline, such as gender-based violence (GBV), sexism, homophobia, transphobia, racism, islamophobia, ableism, and other forms of discrimination. In both the Netherlands and Croatia, data show high levels of online harassment among youth, particularly girls, young women, and LGBTIQ+ youth. Yet many young people lack the tools, support, or confidence to intervene or seek help. Bystander intervention is recognized as a key strategy to prevent violence and empower individuals to act when witnessing harmful behavior. This project addressed these issues by linking GBV and discrimination prevention with practical online bystander strategies. It aimed to build the capacities of youth workers and young people through training, resource development, and safe spaces for discussion, fostering more inclusive, supportive communities both online and offline.