In an increasingly digital age, online violence has become a serious issue, with a direct impact on women and girls around the world. In this context, on December 16, 2024, Moldova 1 TV aired a special edition of the show “United Against Gender-Based Digital Violence” – a very relevant national debate moderated by journalist Lucia Vieru. The debate brought together key voices from society, including representatives from state institutions, civil society, opinion leaders, and experts in the field.
Broadcast live on Moldova 1 TV and on the online platforms of UNFPA Moldova and ANPCV, the participants addressed crucial topics such as the risks and impact of digital violence on women, solutions for a safer and fairer online environment, and the punishments for online aggression. Viewers also had the opportunity to ask questions and participate in a poll on the subject.
A highlight of the show was the speech given by Associate Professor Dr. Dinu Țurcanu, Vice Rector for Digitalization at the Technical University of Moldova and coordinator of the “Cybercor”National Institute for Cybersecurity Innovations. He discussed the impact of digital violence within the gender-based context and emphasized key prevention strategies.
Dr. Țurcanu pointed out that digital violence thrives in a virtual space that is difficult to control. He explained how abusers often hide behind anonymity, manipulating others, stealing identities, or creating fake accounts to harm their victims. Victims often don’t realize they’re under attack right away, and the consequences can be both emotionally and financially devastating. As technology becomes more deeply woven into our daily lives, this issue continues to grow.
To prevent digital violence, he stressed the importance of simple but essential measures: protecting personal information, using strong and unique passwords, regularly updating software, verifying sources, and securing devices with security software. It is essential for each of us to adopt responsible behavior online and encourage a positive digital environment.
Referring to gender-based violence, including digital violence, Vice Rector Dinu Țurcanu noted that it affects women and girls worldwide, and Moldova is no exception. Recent cases of digital violence in August 2024 clearly showed the dangers women face online and highlighted the need for urgent measures to protect them. Every year, millions of people are subjected to online harassment, threats, or cyber fraud, and this phenomenon is growing alarmingly as technology rapidly develops.
To better understand the context, it is important to know that in 2024, women and girls are much more vulnerable to cyberattacks than men – nearly 35% more vulnerable. This is a truth that requires us to take action. In this regard, legislation in Moldova has been amended, and the Criminal Procedure Code has been adapted to keep up with current realities. However, much remains to be done. Digital education and awareness of cybersecurity risks are essential for protecting every person, and this must start in schools.
In this context, in recent months, the Technical University of Moldova has conducted a series of educational activities to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. We visited over 146 educational institutions across the country and spoke with students, teachers, and parents about the risks they face online. Digital education cannot be treated superficially – it is the foundation for preventing any form of digital violence. A positive example is the recently adopted law by the Moldovan Parliament, which bans the use of mobile phones in schools, and I am glad that this initiative was also supported by educational authorities. I also support the introduction of cybersecurity course modules in schools to help prepare young people to navigate the digital world safely.
Cyber violence can take many forms – from harassment and identity theft to blackmail and the distribution of explicit content without the victim’s consent. It is essential to understand that online protection is not just about having strong passwords or using security software. It’s about education, responsibility, and understanding the risks each of us faces when we navigate this vast digital ocean.
In conclusion, digital violence is a complex problem, but one that is preventable. It is essential to promote a safer and fairer online environment for everyone, and this can only be achieved through education, effective legislation, and collaboration between authorities and civil society. We all have a role to play in this ideal – to be vigilant, protect our data, and encourage positive behavior online. Education and responsibility are the key to stopping this harmful phenomenon and building a safer internet for women and girls.
