There must be increased awareness to end the alarming rate of Misogyny, Cyberbullying and Online Gender Based Violence.
This call was made by Journalists for Christ International Outreach at the launch of findings from a study on cyberbullying ,Online Gender Based Violence and misogyny in Nigeria
The study ,#EndMisogynyNG Project was based on data gathered from eight Focus Group Discussions involving around 100 individuals, including female journalists, students from tertiary institutions, and professionals to promote action against the rate of misogyny, both offline and online.
Misogyny is a digitally advanced Gender-Based Violence to assault a person or diminish someone’s personality.
The project’s approach, which includes monitoring, digital counter-narratives, and public advocacy, plans to create lasting change and protect women from online violence.
The Focal Lead of the Project, Mrs. Ugonma Cokey explained that violence against women is beyond physical harm.
She revealed that the data collected showed that sex-based narratives against women are prevalent online, where women are often defamed and represented in derogatory ways often times by men.
She also added that the trend affects women of all caliber and requires more awareness ,promoting digital literacy.
The Campaign Project Officer , Blessing Oladunjoye, said 66 cases out of over 500 analysed social media posts were categorized as cyberbullying, online harassment, and misogynistic content targeting women during the research.
Oladunjoye believes Freedom of expression should not trample on other people’s right. She also urged Men to be strategic in ending the practice.
Gender Lead, JFC, Funmi Falobi , reiterated the role of responsible Media reporting and social media in spreading awareness , collaboration with institutions in combating gender-based violence
Falobi also encouraged storytelling to educate others and promote a better understanding of misogyny. Journalists must counter misogyny through monitoring and digital counter narratives .
The Project Coordinator, Lekan Otufodunrin recommended implementation of Laws and policies to end the practice.
He also encouraged Journalists to strive to make a positive impact through promoting sense of responsibility , peace and tenderness in reporting, particularly on sensitive topics such as misogyny and gender-based violence.
