By: Bashir Hassan Abubakar
A media-based Civil Society Organization, the Journalists for Public Health and Development Initiative, J4PD, has held a Stand Still Activity at the Dogon Yaro Roundabout in Bauchi as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The event focused on the growing threat of digital violence against women and girls.
Placards were held high by coalition of activists with messages calling for safe online spaces, digital respect, and protection for women and girls.
The Executive Director of J4PD, Elizabeth Carr, said the standstill represented a united front against harassment, bullying, and identity abuse faced by women in digital spaces.
“Today, we stand still — not in silence, but in strength.
We stand for every girl whose voice has been attacked online.
We stand for every woman whose pictures were misused and whose dignity was violated.
Digital spaces must be safe spaces. Enough harassment, enough cyberbullying. Together we will end digital violence against women and girls”, said Carr
The ED of J4PD also called on government agencies, lawmakers, and technology companies to strengthen policies that protect online users.
She said the organization is also pushing for digital literacy programmes for girls in schools and communities, and a cultural shift that rejects online shaming and harassment.
The group says that unless digital safety is prioritized, millions of women and girls will remain exposed to new forms of abuse in online spaces.
J4PD says it will continue to engage policymakers and communities until online and offline spaces become safe for all.
Our Correspondent reports that, the Stand Still Activity is one of several events lined up by J4PD during the 16 Days of Activism to raise awareness about growing forms of gender-based violence.
