Rajshahi:Speakers at a campaign emphasized the importance of integrated efforts by the government, media, civil society, and relevant institutions to create a safe, inclusive, and non-discriminatory digital environment for women and marginalized communities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the speakers also highlighted the need to strengthen the capacities of gender activists, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) to prevent online gender-based violence and offer effective support to victims.
The remarks were made during a district-level media campaign aimed at preventing online gender-based violence, organized by Light House at Rajshahi Boalia Club. The campaign sought to raise public awareness about online gender-based violence, cyberbullying, and digital harassment while promoting coordinated efforts to tackle these growing challenges.
The event was part of Light House's 'Civil Rights and Climate Justice' project, supported by the Civic Engagement Fund (CEF) and funded by Switzerland, Canada, and the European Union, managed by GFA Consulting Group. Salah Uddin, the project's team leader, presided over the meeting, which was moderated by Siddiqul Alam Mamun, the project's advocacy and capacity-building coordinator.
Akhtar Jahan Sathi, additional deputy commissioner of Rajshahi, attended as the chief guest, while Professor Tanjima Zohura Habib from the Department of Social Work at the University of Rajshahi presented the keynote paper. Government officials, development workers, youth representatives, victims of online violence, religious leaders, journalists, and civil society representatives were also present.
Akhtar Jahan Sathi noted that anyone could fall victim to online fraud and cyber harassment due to technology misuse. She expressed concern over the psychological impact of rising incidents of online gender-based violence, cyberbullying, and digital harassment on women and adolescents. She commended Light House's initiative to prevent such violence and provide mental health and psychosocial support to victims.
The speakers reiterated the necessity for coordinated initiatives involving various sectors to promote the safe and responsible use of technology and build effective social resistance against online gender-based violence.