With the advancement of technology, the risks and threats posed by online platforms have become a significant concern, especially for vulnerable groups in our communities, such as women and girls. The “Syrian Women have a Voice” project, a partnership between the Equity and Empowerment  Organization and the Syrian Center for Drug Prevention, runs from January 1, 2024, to October 31, 2024, and aims to address these challenges directly. This initiative is designed to raise community awareness, ensure the protection of victims of digital violence, and provide a safe space to share and address online-related issues. By focusing on defamation, online extortion, and other forms of digital violence, the project seeks to empower women and girls to protect themselves both psychologically and physically. It also aims to provide legal and psychological support to women suffering from online defamation and strengthen their relationship with their communities and families through stories of women who have overcome these challenges with determination and resolve.

Context and Importance:

The rapid spread of digital technology in Syria has brought numerous benefits, including increased connectivity and access to information. However, it has also exposed users, particularly women and girls, to new forms of violence and exploitation. Digital violence, including defamation, online extortion, and cyberbullying, has become a widespread issue, often leading to severe psychological effects and social stigma. In a conservative society where honor and reputation are highly valued, such attacks can have devastating consequences.

Addressing digital violence is crucial not only for the safety and well-being of women and girls but also for the broader goal of gender equality and women’s empowerment. By providing women with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital landscape safely, we can help them reap the benefits of technology while minimizing the risks.

Project Objectives:

The overall goal of the project is to increase community awareness and ensure the highest level of protection for victims of digital violence. This will be achieved through four specific objectives:

Raising Community Awareness:

• Organizing workshops and seminars to educate the community about digital rights and the risks associated with internet use.
• Creating and distributing media materials on how to identify and respond to digital threats.
• Enhancing Protection Skills for Girls:
• Providing training sessions for girls on preventive measures to protect against digital violence.
• Teaching practical skills to maintain privacy and security online.

Providing Legal Support:

• Offering legal assistance to women and girls who are victims of digital violence, including defamation and online extortion.
• Establishing a legal hotline for emergency support and advice.

Creating Safe Spaces:

• Establishing online and offline forums where women and girls can share their experiences and seek support.
• Providing psychological counseling services to help victims cope with the trauma of digital violence.

Implementation Strategy:

Awareness Campaigns:

• Launching a national campaign to spread information about digital rights and safety.
• Partnering with local media and social influencers to reach a broader audience.

Training and Workshops:

• Organizing training programs in schools and community centers to educate girls about digital security.
• Collaborating with IT specialists to provide hands-on training on privacy tools and practices.

Legal Assistance:

• Setting up legal clinics to offer free consultations and support for victims of digital violence.
• Training local lawyers on digital violence issues to enhance their ability to assist victims.

Support Networks:

• Creating online platforms where women can report incidents and seek advice anonymously.
• Establishing support groups and counseling sessions to provide emotional and psychological support.

Expected Outcomes:

By the end of the project, it is expected that:

Understanding of digital rights and risks will increase among 3,000 direct beneficiaries and 1,000 indirect beneficiaries.

Girls will be better equipped to protect themselves from digital violence through practical skills and preventive measures.

Access to legal resources and support for victims of digital violence will improve.

Forums and support networks will be established to provide a safe environment for women to share their experiences and receive assistance.

Defemale Podcast:

The Defemale Podcast is part of the “Syrian Women have a Voice” campaign, featuring discussions between the host, survivors of digital violence, experts, and community leaders. The podcast aims to share the stories and experiences of survivors in a narrative style.

Conclusion:

The “Syrian Women have a Voice” project represents an important step toward empowering women and girls in Syria to navigate the digital world with safety and confidence. By raising awareness, enhancing preventive skills, providing legal support, and creating safe spaces, the project aims to mitigate the impact of digital violence and promote a safer, more supportive online environment. Through these efforts, we hope not only to protect women and girls but also to empower them to fully participate in the digital age without fear of exploitation or harm.