Digital Violence against Women in Bangladesh: Unpacking its Causes and Effects
Based on:
Journal Article (2024)
Investigates the causes and effects of digital violence against women in Bangladesh, highlighting the socio-cultural and technological factors contributing to this issue.
Brief by:
Research collaborators:
In Bangladesh, the rapid expansion of digital technologies has been accompanied by a rise in digital violence against women, manifesting in forms such as cyberstalking, online harassment, and non-consensual sharing of intimate images. This trend is exacerbated by societal norms that often blame victims rather than perpetrators, creating an environment where women feel unsafe online. The legal framework in Bangladesh, while existing, is often inadequate in addressing the nuances of digital violence, lacking in enforcement and awareness among the public. The research highlights a gap in understanding the specific socio-cultural dynamics that contribute to digital violence, as well as the need for more comprehensive legal and policy measures to protect women online. Previous studies have primarily focused on the prevalence of digital violence, but there is limited research on the underlying causes and the specific impacts on women’s lives, particularly in the context of Bangladesh’s unique cultural and technological landscape. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the intersection of technology, gender, and societal norms in contributing to digital violence against women.
Key findings
Digital violence against women in Bangladesh is deeply rooted in societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality.
Evidence
The study found that 78% of women surveyed reported experiencing some form of digital violence, with 65% indicating that they did not report these incidents due to fear of social stigma and victim-blaming. One participant noted, ''If I report, people will say it's my fault for being online.''
What it means
The pervasive societal norms that blame victims rather than perpetrators contribute significantly to the underreporting of digital violence, highlighting the need for societal change and increased awareness.
The legal framework in Bangladesh is insufficient in addressing digital violence against women.
Evidence
The research indicates that while laws exist, 72% of respondents were unaware of legal protections available to them, and 85% felt that law enforcement agencies were not equipped to handle cases of digital violence effectively.
What it means
This lack of awareness and confidence in legal systems underscores the necessity for legal reforms and public education campaigns to better protect women online.
Technological literacy among women is a critical factor in both experiencing and combating digital violence.
Evidence
The study revealed that 60% of women who experienced digital violence had limited understanding of privacy settings and online safety measures, making them more vulnerable to attacks.
What it means
Enhancing technological literacy among women could empower them to protect themselves better and reduce the incidence of digital violence.
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Digital Violence against Women in Bangladesh: Unpacking its Causes and Effects
Cite this brief: Nawaz, Faraha. 'Digital Violence against Women in Bangladesh: Unpacking its Causes and Effects'. Acume. https://www.acume.org/r/digital-violence-against-women-in-bangladesh-unpacking-its-causes-and-effects/
Brief created by: Professor Faraha Nawaz | Year brief made: 2025
Original research:
- Tonny, T. A., & Nawaz, F., ‘Digital Violence against Women in Bangladesh: Unpacking its Causes and Effects’ Journal of Bangladesh Studies 26(1), pp. 42–49 https://doi.org/10.1163/27715086-02601005. – https://brill.com/view/journals/jbds/26/1/article-p42_5.xml
Research brief:
Investigates the causes and effects of digital violence against women in Bangladesh, highlighting the socio-cultural and technological factors contributing to this issue.
In Bangladesh, the rapid expansion of digital technologies has been accompanied by a rise in digital violence against women, manifesting in forms such as cyberstalking, online harassment, and non-consensual sharing of intimate images. This trend is exacerbated by societal norms that often blame victims rather than perpetrators, creating an environment where women feel unsafe online. The legal framework in Bangladesh, while existing, is often inadequate in addressing the nuances of digital violence, lacking in enforcement and awareness among the public. The research highlights a gap in understanding the specific socio-cultural dynamics that contribute to digital violence, as well as the need for more comprehensive legal and policy measures to protect women online. Previous studies have primarily focused on the prevalence of digital violence, but there is limited research on the underlying causes and the specific impacts on women’s lives, particularly in the context of Bangladesh’s unique cultural and technological landscape. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the intersection of technology, gender, and societal norms in contributing to digital violence against women.
Findings:
Digital violence against women in Bangladesh is deeply rooted in societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality.
The study found that 78% of women surveyed reported experiencing some form of digital violence, with 65% indicating that they did not report these incidents due to fear of social stigma and victim-blaming. One participant noted, ”If I report, people will say it’s my fault for being online.”
The pervasive societal norms that blame victims rather than perpetrators contribute significantly to the underreporting of digital violence, highlighting the need for societal change and increased awareness.
The legal framework in Bangladesh is insufficient in addressing digital violence against women.
The research indicates that while laws exist, 72% of respondents were unaware of legal protections available to them, and 85% felt that law enforcement agencies were not equipped to handle cases of digital violence effectively.
This lack of awareness and confidence in legal systems underscores the necessity for legal reforms and public education campaigns to better protect women online.
Technological literacy among women is a critical factor in both experiencing and combating digital violence.
The study revealed that 60% of women who experienced digital violence had limited understanding of privacy settings and online safety measures, making them more vulnerable to attacks.
Enhancing technological literacy among women could empower them to protect themselves better and reduce the incidence of digital violence.