Abstract
This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of gender-based violence in social media and explores strategies to combat this issue. Objectives include examining various types of violence, exploring offline impact, investigating COVID-19 effects on gender-based violence in India, and discussing intersectionality, embodiment, resistance, and community-based interventions. Intersectionality's crucial role in understanding violence is highlighted, emphasizing the need to validate survivors' experiences. It evaluates social media companies' involvement and stresses grassroots activism's significance in challenging oppression. The conclusion emphasizes the urgency for action, sustained research, and advocacy to establish safe and inclusive online environments. It recommends exploring innovative interventions, evaluating existing policies, and understanding evolving dynamics to achieve a violence-free digital future.
TopBackground Study
Cyberfeminism has emerged as a critical field of study that examines the relationship between women and the Internet, with a focus on investigating power dynamics, access to technology, and the potential perpetuation of gender inequities in digital spaces. While research on cyberfeminism originated in the late 1990s, there is ongoing exploration and investigation due to the evolving nature of digital threats. The following research studies contribute to the foundational understanding of cyberfeminism and provide insights into current trends and challenges in the field:
Cunningham and Crandall (2014) argued that nonprofit organizations, heavily reliant on social media, offered opportunities to apply cyberfeminist goals and explore the interplay of gender and technology. Schlesselman-Tarango (2014) incorporated feminist pedagogy and critical information literacy, emphasizing the empowerment of students through digital technologies to challenge dominant narratives and foster inclusion and diversity in information resources.
Mohanty and Samantaray (2017) explored the potential of cyberspace for female emancipation, highlighting women's utilization of digital platforms for personal empowerment and advocating for countering the predominant male influence in information and communication technology. They emphasized the importance of incorporating a female perspective in the perception of technology. Verma et al. (2018) analyzed successful online campaigns on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, illustrating their contribution to women's empowerment and global feminist discourse.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Grassroots Activism: Grassroots activism in cyberfeminism involves community-driven initiatives to address gender-based issues in digital spaces. Activists at the local level raise awareness, create networks, and mobilize communities to challenge online harassment, promote inclusivity, and advocate for change. They work collectively to empower marginalized voices, dismantle discriminatory practices, and create equitable digital environments.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality in cyber feminism recognizes and analyzes how multiple forms of oppression intersect and interact in digital spaces. It acknowledges that individuals' experiences of gender-based violence and discrimination are shaped by the intersections of their race, class, sexuality, ability, and other social identities. By considering these intersecting factors, cyber feminism aims to challenge power dynamics, promote inclusivity, and advocate for equitable digital environments that address the diverse experiences and vulnerabilities of women from marginalized communities.
Embodiment: Embodiment in cyberfeminism recognizes the real-world impacts of gender-based violence in digital spaces, emphasizing the need to validate survivors' experiences and prioritize their well-being. It highlights the importance of creating supportive and inclusive online environments that acknowledge the emotional toll of online harassment and violence.
Cyberfeminism: Cyberfeminism is a movement that addresses the intersection of gender, technology, and the internet. It seeks to challenge gender inequalities in digital spaces and promote equal opportunities for women. By advocating for access, representation, and empowerment, cyberfeminism aims to create a more inclusive and equitable online environment.
Online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV) or Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TF GBV): OGBV or TF GBV refers to acts of violence, harassment, and discrimination targeting individuals based on their gender in digital spaces. It includes cyberbullying, trolling, revenge porn, stalking, and hate speech. OGBV or TF GBV negatively affects victims’ well-being and perpetuates gender inequalities. Addressing OGBVor TF GBV requires awareness, digital literacy, policies, victim support, and accountability for perpetrators. Creating a safe and inclusive online environment is crucial for gender equality and respect.
Resistance: Resistance in cyberfeminism involves challenging power structures, promoting change, and empowering individuals and communities in digital spaces. It aims to counter gender-based violence and inequality through diverse strategies, advocating for accountability and amplifying marginalized voices. By fostering collective action and reshaping societal norms, cyberfeminism strives for a more equitable and just online environment.