Today, technology is not only a tool for communication and opportunity—it has also become a platform for gender-based abuse. Harassment no longer exists solely in physical spaces; it now reaches women through smartphones, social media platforms, messaging apps, manipulated photographs, fake identities, and coordinated online attacks. As Bangladesh advances digitally, an important question emerges: Is the digital environment equally safe for everyone?
International evidence suggests that online violence against women has become a serious global challenge. Research consistently shows that many women experience unwanted sexual messages, image-based abuse, identity theft, and privacy violations while using digital platforms. These experiences often discourage women from expressing their opinions publicly, participating in professional discussions, or engaging confidently on social media. Instead of empowering women, digital spaces can become environments that silence their voices.
The consequences extend far beyond the screen. Victims frequently experience anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and emotional trauma. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence have further complicated the problem. Deepfake technology, for example, allows fabricated images or videos to be created with alarming realism, making reputational attacks easier and more damaging than ever before. As AI tools become increasingly accessible, the potential for technology-enabled abuse continues to grow.
The challenge is evolving alongside new digital environments. Virtual reality and immersive online platforms have introduced additional forms of harassment that existing legal systems often struggle to address. Experts increasingly argue that psychological harm experienced in virtual spaces can have real and lasting consequences, demonstrating that online violence should never be dismissed as "less serious" simply because it occurs through technology.
Around the world, governments are beginning to recognise technology-facilitated violence as an urgent public safety issue. New investments, specialised victim support services, and stronger legal responses are being introduced to address cyber harassment, digital stalking, and image-based abuse. These initiatives reflect a growing international understanding that online safety is now an essential component of gender equality.
Bangladesh faces many of the same challenges. Women who become visible in journalism, activism, politics, education, or social movements are often subjected to coordinated campaigns involving fake screenshots, edited images, false rumours, and organised harassment. Such attacks are frequently designed to intimidate women into withdrawing from public participation rather than simply causing emotional distress.
Although Bangladesh has laws addressing cybercrime, enforcement remains inconsistent. Many survivors report that complaints receive limited follow-up, while others encounter victim-blaming attitudes instead of institutional support. This gap between legislation and implementation weakens public confidence and leaves many women reluctant to seek justice.
Creating a safer digital future requires more than stronger laws alone. Technology companies must improve platform safety and moderation systems. Educational institutions should incorporate digital citizenship, online ethics, privacy protection, and consent into digital literacy programmes. Responsible journalism should avoid sensationalising survivors' experiences and instead promote informed public discussion. Families, schools, policymakers, and civil society all share responsibility for fostering respectful online behaviour.
Bangladesh's digital ambitions cannot be measured only by faster internet or expanding digital services. True progress will be achieved when women can participate online freely, confidently, and without fear of harassment or intimidation. A truly digital Bangladesh is one where innovation is matched by safety, inclusion, and equal opportunity for every citizen.
- SHREONTI SAMIHA is pursuing a degree in law at Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), with a keen interest in digital rights, cyber law, and gender justice.