Successful Awareness Session on Digital Gender-Based Violence
On 16 February 2026, SNAD Foundation, in collaboration with its Humanity Foundation (IHF), successfully conducted an awareness session on Technology Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) at Panchkhola Primary School in Shatarkul, Bangladesh. This initiative emphasized women empowerment and the protection of women and young girls from online harassment and cyber bullying.
Understanding Technology Facilitated Gender-Based Violence
Technology Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) refers to harmful actions carried out through digital platforms that target individuals because of their gender. Women and young girls are often disproportionately affected. Examples include receiving abusive messages, being threatened online, having personal photos shared without consent, being impersonated through fake profiles, or facing continuous cyber bullying on social media. Such experiences can cause serious emotional, psychological, and social consequences, and many victims suffer in silence due to fear, shame, or lack of awareness about available support.
Digital Safety as a Pathway to Women Empowerment
Empowering women and young girls with digital safety knowledge is a critical step toward gender equality. When women feel safe online, they can fully participate in education, entrepreneurship, leadership, and community engagement. A safe digital environment supports women empowerment by allowing women and girls to express themselves freely without fear of harassment or exploitation.
Digital Opportunities and Emerging Risks for Women in Bangladesh
As digital access continues to expand across Bangladesh, more women and young girls are using smartphones, social media platforms, and online communication tools for education, business, and social connection. While technology opens opportunities for learning and economic participation, it also exposes women and girls to serious risks. Online harassment, cyber bullying, digital stalking, image-based abuse, threats, and blackmail are becoming increasingly common. These forms of technology-facilitated gender-based violence create fear, silence voices, and limit women’s full participation in the digital space.
SNAD Foundation’s Initiative to Promote Digital Safety
Recognizing this urgent challenge, SNAD Foundation and its partners organized this awareness session to promote digital safety for women and young girls. The session focused on online harassment prevention, cyber safety awareness, and practical strategies to respond to digital abuse. The goal was not only to inform participants but also to empower women and girls with confidence, knowledge, and the courage to speak up.
Importance of Early Action and Digital Literacy
During the session, facilitators explained how online harassment happens and why taking early action is crucial. Real-life examples were shared in a responsible and respectful manner to help participants understand common online risks faced by women and girls. The discussion highlighted the importance of digital literacy, privacy protection, and responsible internet use.
Interactive Learning and Participant Engagement
The awareness program was designed to be interactive and engaging. Women and students were encouraged to share their thoughts, ask questions, and discuss their own experiences. Key learning points included:
- How to identify online harassment and cyber bullying
- How to protect personal information
- How to manage privacy settings on social media
- How to report abusive content
Participants were also guided on seeking help from trusted adults, school authorities, or legal support services when facing online threats.
Commitment to Education and Preventing Online Abuse
This awareness session at Panchkhola Primary School reflects a broader commitment to women empowerment, online safety education, and the prevention of technology-facilitated gender-based violence in Bangladesh. By educating women and young girls about their digital rights and protective measures, SNAD Foundation is helping create a generation that is informed, confident, and resilient.
Promoting Social Justice Through Safer Digital Spaces
Creating safer digital spaces for women and girls is not only a protective measure but also a step toward social justice and equality. Together, through awareness, education, and community support, we can ensure that every woman and girl in Bangladesh can use technology safely, confidently, and without fear.
