The programme collaborates closely with tech companies and IT service providers to address TFVAWG issues that occur through digital platforms. By working with these companies, alongside government officials and policymakers, the programme aims to develop policy recommendations and frameworks to reduce incidents and take proactive steps to protect vulnerable women and girls from emerging digital risks.
Protecting and Empowering Women in the Digital Space: Advocacy for the Human Security Approach
Duration: March 2025– August 2026
Budget: US$366,000 (UNTFHS: $300,000 ; Pooled Funding: 66,000)
Implementing Agencies: UNWomen (lead), UNODC, ITU
In Egypt, digitalization has created new opportunities for women in education, healthcare, and economic development. However, it has also introduced new risks, particularly the rise of Technology-Facilitated Violence Against Women and Girls (TFVAWG). Enabled by information and communication technologies (ICT) and digital media, this form of violence affects women and girls of all ages and backgrounds, leading to health, safety, and socio-economic consequences. With more than half of women in Egypt using the internet, many report concerns of online harassment and safety. Yet, the lack of comprehensive national data on TFVAWG highlights the urgent need for research-driven, multi-stakeholder strategies. Developing integrated, evidence-based solutions is essential to not only safeguard women and girls online but also to foster a digital landscape that is safe and empowering.
The programme seeks to address, prevent, protect against, and empower women and girls against technology-facilitated violence through the human security approach. Specifically, it aims to: (i) generate evidence-based knowledge to inform effective policymaking and methodologies to combat TFVAWG; (ii) strengthen the capacities of key stakeholders, including law enforcement, tech companies, service providers, and women’s groups; and (iii) raise awareness about the opportunities offered by technology, the risks and threats of TFVAWG, and the importance of robust protection and empowerment mechanisms.
KEY MATERIALS
Programme Summary