The digital world was supposed to be humanity’s big leap forward with faster communication, wider opportunities, and limitless learning. But for women and girls, it has increasingly become a battlefield. As 16 Days of Activism kicks off, the UNiTE campaign is sounding the alarm on one of the fastest-growing threats of our time- digital violence.
This isn’t just a tech issue; it’s a human rights emergency hiding behind screens and algorithms.
What the campaign is calling for
Stopping digital violence requires coordination, investment, and accountability at every level.
This year, UNiTE is calling upon:
Governments to:
- Pass and enforce laws that criminalise digital abuse.
- Protect personal data so it cannot be weaponised.
- Strengthen oversight of tech companies to ensure public safety — not corporate PR — comes first.
Tech Companies to:
- Build safer, more transparent platforms.
- Remove harmful content swiftly and consistently.
- Implement enforceable conduct policies.
- Publish real reporting on violations, not vague “community updates.”
Donors to:
- Back feminist organisations and digital rights movements that are doing the frontline work.
Individuals to:
- Call out harmful behaviour.
- Support survivors in practical, non-judgemental ways.
- Challenge online cultures that normalise misogyny.
Ending digital violence isn’t a departmental memo. It’s an all-hands-on-deck agenda.
How you can take part
You can:
- Share verified resources on digital safety.
- Participate in or organise community digital literacy sessions.
- Amplify survivor support services and credible crisis lines.
- Promote male allyship and mentorship online.
- Engage policymakers on the need for modern online safety laws.
- Support platforms and creators pushing a safer, ethical digital culture.
- Wear or display orange, the global colour of solidarity, hope, and action.
And yes: join the conversation using #NoExcuse and #ACTtoEndViolence. Hashtags might feel small, but visibility fuels momentum.
16 Days of Activism 2025: End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls
Why it matters
Digital violence does not stay online. It follows women home, to work, to school, to public office. It erodes confidence. It forces women out of online spaces that should be enabling their future: digital careers, civic advocacy, creative work, education, and entrepreneurship.
Normalising abuse online is the same as saying:
“This space was never meant for you.”
But the truth is the opposite. The digital future must belong to everyone.
The 16 Days campaign reminds us that online safety is not a luxury, not an afterthought, and definitely not a “women’s problem.” It is a foundational human right, a prerequisite for equality, and a non-negotiable part of the world we’re building.
Looking ahead
This year’s campaign is backed by the ACT Programme, a powerful coalition led by UN Women and supported by the European Union, feminist movements, and digital rights advocates worldwide. Together, they’re driving the research, the policy shifts, and the global solidarity needed to eliminate digital violence for good.
December 10 does not mark the end of this work. It marks a checkpoint. A reminder that progress is possible, but only if pressure stays high, communities stay engaged, and digital spaces are held to the same standards we expect offline.
For now, though, the world is paying attention. The moment is here.
Let’s make 16 Days count.