Letters from CSW67: Fatima Ali Madar

Protecting girls and women from digital abuse

A number of side events in CSW67 are about how to protect women and girls from digital abuse. Many countries are working to criminalize digital abuse, and have expressed that they will have their own policies in place in the near future. At the same time, many have mentioned the importance of prioritizing girls' digital literacy to closing the skill gap. 

Awareness and information about how dangerous the digital world is, is an important part of the solution. Artificial intilligence (AI) technology in particular is extremely dangerous. It makes possible to manipulate data, so that the face and body of girls can be used in pornographic images/videos.

Accountability

As a female computer engineer and women's rights activist, I would like to add value to the ongoing UN-Women discussion and negotiations. I would like to remind and encourage members of CSW to also hold
owners of social media accountable. They must take responsibility for the data they are collecting from the users of their platform. 

Many young girls have no idea what happens to the photos they share on these platforms, because they think it's safe. But it's not always safe.

Therefore it is mportant that we talk openly about the consequences of using digital platforms and sharing private photos and videos. It is not always safe. It must be allowed to tell girls, be careful, both in what you share online and with whom you share it with. And remember that data collected about us can be misused.

I am glad that CSW67 has put the theme in today's agenda!