Why Women's E-Safety Matters

The internet is one of the greatest spaces for connection and creativity ever built. It's where people learn, share, speak up, and make change. But for many women and girls, that same space can also be hostile. Behind every comment section, direct message, or social platform lies the possibility of harassment, discrimination, or intimidation — experiences that too often go unseen, unreported, and unpunished.

A Hidden Epidemic

Online gender-based violence (OGBV) has quietly become one of the defining issues of the digital era. Studies show that women — especially young women, journalists, activists, and those from marginalized communities — are disproportionately targeted by online abuse. From sexualized threats and stalking to the non-consensual sharing of personal images, the harm goes far beyond screens.

These attacks can erode confidence, harm mental health, and even push women out of online spaces altogether. When that happens, their voices — and the diverse perspectives they bring — disappear from public conversations. E-safety for women, therefore, is not just a matter of personal protection; it's about equality, participation, and freedom of expression.

The Digital Divide

For many women, particularly those from disadvantaged or migrant backgrounds, access to the internet is already limited. Add the fear of harassment or exploitation, and participation becomes even harder. Without proper digital literacy skills or awareness of online safety, young women can find themselves more vulnerable to scams, manipulation, or abuse.

At the same time, women's digital exclusion has ripple effects across society. When half the population cannot fully engage online, innovation slows, communities weaken, and democracy itself becomes less representative. Creating safer digital spaces is therefore not only about individual safety — it's about building fairer, stronger, and more inclusive societies.

Empowerment Through Knowledge

Empowerment begins with education. Understanding how to identify manipulation, protect privacy, manage digital identities, and report harmful behavior are essential life skills in today's connected world. These are not luxuries; they are necessities.

That's why our organization is proud to be part of eSAFETY WOMEN, a European Erasmus+ project that aims to help young women from disadvantaged backgrounds strengthen their digital confidence and safety. Together with international partners, we are creating learning opportunities, resources, and spaces where young women can build the skills they need to protect themselves — and each other — online.

Changing the Culture of the Internet

Improving e-safety for women isn't just about teaching self-defense in digital form; it's about transforming online culture. It means challenging the normalization of harassment, encouraging empathy and accountability, and promoting respect as a shared online value.

It also means empowering bystanders and allies — because the responsibility to create safer spaces doesn't rest only on women's shoulders. Platforms, communities, and individuals all have a role to play in fostering a digital environment where everyone can express themselves freely.

Towards a Safer Digital Future

E-safety for women is about freedom — the freedom to explore, learn, create, and connect without fear. When women are safe online, they are empowered to use technology for education, leadership, and change-making. That benefits not only them, but entire communities.

Through initiatives like eSAFETY WOMEN, we are helping to build a future where every woman and girl can claim her space in the digital world — confidently, safely, and without compromise. Because a safer internet for women is, ultimately, a better internet for all.