Experts Warn of Rising Cyberbullying and Grooming at Digital Violence Panel

On Monday, the Directorate of Gender Affairs, in collaboration with the UN Women Country Office, successfully held a powerful panel discussion titled “Combating Digital Violence Against Women and Girls: Strategies and Solutions.” Held at the Siboney Beach Hotel, this event was a key part of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign to End Gender-Based Violence, under the theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Sara Stuart, the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, setting the stage for a meaningful dialogue. We were honored to have Mrs. Chaneil Imhoff as our skilled moderator, guiding the conversation with expertise and insight.

Our esteemed panelists included:

Ms. Alexandrina Wong – President of Woman Against Rape (WAR)

Ms. Octavia Nicholas – Author, and Advocate

Officer Renika Isaac Chandler – Criminal Investigation Department, Royal Police Force of Antigua & Barbuda

Mrs. Gordina Hector-Murrell – Director of the Cyber Security Unit, Ministry of Information and Technology & Telecommunications

Mrs. Arnelle Michael Brann – Attorney at Law, and

Mr. Lyle Jackson – Human Resources Information Systems Officer, Antigua Public Utilities Authority

A key takeaway from the discussion was the prevalence of cyberbullying and grooming of girls. There is also an urgent need to raise awareness and educate youth on navigating online spaces safely. Emphasizing respect for others, the importance of reporting and not sharing inappropriate images, and creating secure passwords are essential steps in fostering a safer digital environment. Additionally, there was a strong call for more men to be included in these discussions, to help sensitize them to the violations and impacts of digital violence against women and girls.

Thank you to everyone who participated and supported this crucial dialogue. Let’s continue to stand united in our fight to end digital violence!

#EndDigitalViolence#16DaysOfActivism#UNiTE#GenderEquality

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]