Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, partners, and honored guests,
As we reflect on these 16 Days of Activism, we confront the stark reality that gender-based violence, including online violence, remains one of the most pressing and persistent challenges of our time. The numbers speak volumes, but the silence around this issue speaks louder still. Harmful social norms, stigma, and systemic barriers continue to silence survivors, leaving them feeling isolated and powerless. For adolescent girls, this silence is amplified by their double vulnerability: as young individuals navigating a complex world and as females subjected to gendered violence and discrimination. But let us remember: powerlessness is not a permanent state. With collective action, innovation, and awareness, we can help these girls move from vulnerability to strength.
The Laaha platform, which we are launching today, is a virtual safe space where women and girls can seek help, share their experiences, and access resources. Platforms like these disrupt the spiral of silence by creating environments where survivors know they are not alone, that their stories matter, and that help is available.
Breaking the silence and promoting help-seeking behaviors among adolescent girls who experience online violence is no easy task. The data from La Strada for 2024 reveals a troubling pattern: 99% of reported images with sexual content depict females, girls aged 13 to 16 years being the most affected. Furthermore, 96% of these target prepubescent children, of whom 90% are girls. These numbers are not just statistics—children and adolescents who are suffering in silence are behind them.
This word – silence – is a common tagline in all discussions around gender-based violence. What prevents them from speaking out and seeking help?
The truth of the matter is that experiencing violence is a very isolating experience, survivors often feel as if it only happened to them. This is despite the fact that, as recent research shows, 40% of adolescents were exposed to at least some form of online violence! They stand in a crowd of others who have suffered similar experiences but do not see it. Social norms and some media narratives create the illusion that their trauma is unique or shameful. This is not just a personal burden; it is a societal failure. When victims feel unable to speak, the silence protects not them, but the very systems and norms that perpetuate violence.
Survivors need to know that others share their experiences, that help is available and that they are not to blame. The rise of digital media can, and must, shift the power dynamics of storytelling, and we should not miss the opportunity to collectively transform digital spaces, with platforms like Laaha, into environments of support, not judgment.
When we share resources, when we counter victim-blaming narratives, and stand in solidarity with survivors, we chip away at the silence that isolates them.
As we move forward, let me highlight once again that the fight against gender-based violence is not the responsibility of one organization or one individual. We are all part of the same society, the same informational ecosystem. It is a shared effort, requiring all of us to challenge harmful norms, amplify survivors' voices, and foster environments of solidarity and support.
Together, we can break the silence. Together, we can transform powerlessness into empowerment. Together, we can create a safer, more supportive environment, where online violence is not tolerated, and help-seeking behaviors are encouraged, embraced, and celebrated.
Thank you.
