Combating Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence: A priority on the agenda of UNFPA and the National Agency for the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence.

The National Agency for the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (ANPCV), in partnership with UNFPA Moldova, has brought the issue of technology-facilitated violence to the public agenda.

In the context of recent abuses in Telegram groups, which involved the illegal distribution of photo and video content of a sexual nature, gender-based violence specialists, authorities, and civil society discussed future strategies for preventing and combating this growing phenomenon.

According to specialists, there is a continued need to improve the legal framework in order to intervene promptly in cases of abuse and protect victims, as well as to train professionals in the field of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV). At the same time, there is a need for broader public awareness, especially among at-risk groups (women, adolescents, and young people), about the dangers of the online environment and safety measures. Public awareness campaigns are essential, as well as online safety lessons adapted to current realities, integrated into the school curriculum.

Experts have identified the need for the involvement of the private tech sector and for holding them accountable regarding cybersecurity measures, including confidentiality and the protection of personal data.

The proposals from the meeting will be included in a strategic plan of the National Agency for the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, which will be developed in collaboration with ministries, civil society, and international organizations to provide effective protection in the online environment.

UNFPA will intensify efforts to prevent digital violence through global awareness initiatives such as the #Bodyright campaign, the #SuperCoders project carried out in partnership with the Orange Foundation, the involvement of the private sector, and supporting the improvement of legal response mechanisms.