As civic space has shrunk or closed in many of the countries in the broader MENA region, WHRDs have taken to online platforms and have used innovative strategies for raising public awareness and support for gender equality and efforts to eliminate violence against women. But WHRDs are facing violence and backlash as a result. They are not only targeted by governments and security forces for their online activism, but also face backlash from conservative groups and even regular users.
In the Femena’s Parallel Event at NGO CSW67 Forum, on 14th of March 2023, Panelists explored how WHRDs are utilizing online platforms to advocate for gender equality, and the types of backlash and violence they face online. Panelists also discussed how online platforms and other actors can better protect and support WHRDs in the critical work they are doing.