Islamabad — Digital violence targeting individuals, particularly women and girls, was the focus of a Human Rights Day event held in Islamabad on Wednesday, as experts, government officials and civil society representatives examined the scale of online abuse and existing response mechanisms.
The event, titled “H.E.R. Digital Shield: Healing, Empowerment, and Resilience Against Digital Violence,” was organized by Legal Aid Society in collaboration with the Royal Norwegian Embassy. It also marked the conclusion of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
The discussion centered on online harassment, cyberstalking, non-consensual sharing of images and other forms of technology-facilitated abuse affecting women’s participation in public, economic and political life.
Government stance on digital violence in Pakistan
Federal Secretary for Human Rights Abdul Khalique Shaikh said the government remains committed to strengthening digital rights protections for individuals and improving safeguards for women and girls using online platforms. He said technology-facilitated gender-based violence should be addressed through coordinated action by all relevant institutions.
Norwegian embassy highlights international cooperation
Norwegian Ambassador Per Albert Ilsaas said efforts to counter digital violence require cooperation between governments, policymakers and multiple sectors to improve online safety. He reiterated Norway’s continued engagement on issues of gender equality and digital rights.
Women face higher exposure to online abuse
Legal Aid Society Chief Executive Officer Haya Emaan Zahid said women in Pakistan face significantly higher exposure to online abuse than men on social media platforms. She pointed to the role of digital systems and online behavior patterns in the spread of gender-based attacks.
Law enforcement and cybercrime response discussed
A panel discussion moderated by journalist Myra Imran included representatives from the Islamabad Police, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, UNDP, and UNFPA. The panel reviewed investigative challenges, handling of digital evidence, and institutional constraints in dealing with online abuse cases.
Technology-based solutions to digital violence in Pakistan
A second panel focused on technological responses to digital violence in Pakistan. Speakers from the Digital Rights Foundation, Bolo Bhi, Media Matters for Democracy, and Public Interest Law Association of Pakistan discussed safety tools, secure digital system design, and the role of civil society in countering online harm.
The event concluded with discussions on improving coordination between institutions, strengthening survivor protection frameworks, and addressing gaps in reporting and enforcement.
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