Sonke is currently implementing the Transform Digital Spaces to Reflect Feminist Democratic Principles -Transform project, which is a partnership between the organisation, IREX and Makaia. The three-year global pilot initiative, is implemented in Georgia, Guatemala, and Kenya and aims to support practical approaches to prevent, mitigate, and respond to Technology-Facilitated Gender Based Violence.
The United Nations Population Fund defines TFGBV as ‘’an act of violence perpetrated by one or more individuals that is committed, assisted, aggravated and amplified by the use of information and communication technologies or digital media, against a person on the basis of their gender’’. This global phenomenon is experienced disproportionately by women, girls and LGBTQI+ individuals.
Key participants of the program include women in politics, women human rights defenders, women journalists, and women active in civil society or other areas of public life, as it focuses on addressing violence experienced by women in politics and public life. It also involves men and male-dominated organisations, especially in the technology sector, to address TFGBV.
‘’During the first quarter of 2024, the team revised the Gender Consciousness Module, which focuses on raising awareness on gender and social equity, discussing key concepts related to gender, and reflecting on the impact of TFGBV.’’ Said Fitiavana Miangaly Randriantseheno, Sonke’s Regional Senior Trainer.
‘’We also developed a Responsible and Ethical Data Practices Module, which looks at the importance of data privacy, protection of sensitive information, and responsible sharing of information. Sonke also developed a glossary of terms for all the modules to ensure consistency and clarity in terminology’’ she said.
Through this initiative, Transform will address the root causes of TFGBV, build participants’ resilience and strengthen institutions’ capacity and commitment to decreasing its prevalence. During the implementing period, the program will also empower local partners, including women’s rights organisations, civic tech groups and women’s public leadership associations.
‘’The efforts of Sonke and its partners reflect a comprehensive approach to tackling TFGBV, emphasising capacity building, awareness-raising, and the promotion of ethical practices in the digital domain. These activities are tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities within the pilot countries, with the lessons learned intended to inform broader strategies against TFGBV globally. We will also include a number of stakeholders to foster a more inclusive, equitable, and safe digital space, particularly for women in politics and public life.’’ Randriantseheno concludes.
