Digital violence against women must be taken seriously

Although online violence can severely undermine the health and daily functioning of those who experience it, Bosnia and Herzegovina still lacks a developed institutional support system, and society continues to underestimate this form of violence. This message was emphasized today at the panel discussion “Safe Digital Spaces: How Can Bosnia and Herzegovina Stop Online Violence?”.  

This year’s campaign is jointly implemented by UN Women, UNDP, UNFPA and UNICEF, in partnership with the Agency for Gender Equality of BiH of the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of BiH and civil society organizations. The campaign is carried out through the joint Gender Equality Accelerator (GEA) programme, in partnership with the European Union, Sweden, and Denmark, within the framework of the cooperation between the United Nations and the institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the aim of advancing gender equality and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

Harmonizing BiH policies with international standards, especially the Istanbul Convention, remains a priority, as does strengthening the capacities of all institutions working to prevent and prosecute violence against women. Samra Filipović-Hadžiabdić, director of the Agency for Gender Equality of BiH, emphasized that the specialized support the country must ensure includes safe protection mechanisms, psychological and legal assistance, and effective channels for reporting both online and offline violence.  

“We welcome the introduction of criminal offences related to the non-consensual sharing of intimate content by entity lawmakers, but it is essential to continue regulating other forms of digital violence, such as online threats, cyberstalking, and manipulation with fabricated digital content,” said Samra Filipović-Hadžiabdić, Director of the Agency.  

Worldwide, 117 countries have adopted various measures to prevent digital violence, but harmful narratives and reduced support for women’s CSOs are slowing progress.  

“Technology-facilitated gender-based violence is real violence, and its impact on women and girls is profound. As we open this year’s 16 Days of Activism, we call for stronger protection online, survivor-centered services, and coordinated action across institutions. One in two women in BiH experiences violence in her lifetime - this must compel us to act with urgency. The United Nations stands with Bosnia and Herzegovina in creating safe digital spaces and ensuring that every woman and girl can live free from violence,” said Arnhild Spence, UN Resident Coordinator in BiH.  

The Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to BiH, Adebayo Babajide, stated that the European Union will continue its work on preventing gender-based violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  

“Recently, we established a partnership with UN Women, UNDP, UNICEF, and UNFPA, securing 7.5 million euros that will be directed towards addressing the root causes of gender-based violence in BiH, as well as providing direct support to safe houses and survivors. We are investing in the economic empowerment of women so they can achieve economic independence from perpetrators. I believe it is important that this campaign has placed focus on combating gender-based violence in the online sphere, highlighting how the digital space can be a major facilitator of violence against women,” Babajide said.  

Ambassador of Denmark to BiH, Age Sandal Moller, stated that this country remains a committed partner to BiH in its efforts to strengthen protection for women and girls from all forms of violence.  

“At a time when we are increasingly confronted with challenges in the digital space, it is essential that we work together to create an environment in which women and girls can participate freely and without fear. During the 16 Days of Activism, we reaffirm our readiness to continue supporting institutions and civil society in these important efforts,” said Ambassador Moller.  

Throughout this year’s “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, events will be held in Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Bijeljina, Mostar, East Sarajevo, Tuzla, and Brčko. Citizens will be able to attend public discussions, art exhibitions, and performances, as well as the promotion of publications focused on protection from gender-based violence.