The Women’s Alliance for Security and Peace (WASP) successfully held its “HERSAFE: Securing Digital Spaces for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence” webinar on November 25, 2024. The event, conducted via Zoom and attended by approximately 100 participants, marked a significant step in raising awareness and equipping individuals with practical tools to navigate and protect vulnerable populations in the digital landscape. Held in partnership with the Global Alliance for Women Advocates (GAWA), the webinar honored the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women by addressing critical issues surrounding online safety and empowerment for survivors of gender-based violence.
The webinar featured two impactful sessions led by renowned experts. The first, “Online Privacy Risks and Safety Tips,” was presented by Captain Niko Angelo C. Tarayao of the Philippine Army. Captain Tarayao, a certified cybersecurity expert, shared actionable strategies to safeguard personal information and demonstrated practical adjustments to digital privacy settings. His session underscored the importance of proactive online safety, particularly for survivors of gender-based violence who face heightened risks in digital spaces.
The second session, “Cyberbullying and Online Harassment,” was facilitated by Ms. Cheng Veniles, National Programme Officer for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Drawing from her extensive experience in cybersecurity and anti-trafficking initiatives, Ms. Veniles explored the prevalence of cyberbullying and harassment, providing attendees with concrete steps to report and combat digital abuse. She also shared regional case studies from ASEAN countries, offering valuable insights into how survivors can seek support and justice when confronted with online threats.
WASP extends its deepest gratitude to its partners, the UNODC and the Philippine Army, for their invaluable contributions to the event. Captain Tarayao’s expertise and Ms. Veniles’ practical guidance were instrumental in empowering participants and amplifying the importance of digital safety for survivors of violence.
The event closed with reflections on the key takeaways from the sessions, reinforcing the shared responsibility to foster safer digital spaces. WASP and GAWA leadership expressed their appreciation to the participants for their engagement and commitment to the cause, reiterating their dedication to creating inclusive and secure online environments for all.
