Women in Politics Equipped to Withstand Digital Abuse, Intimidation

Accra: The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GenCED) has urged women in politics and young civic activists to build resilience against online abuse, intimidation, and other forms of digital violence that threaten their participation in public life. According to Ghana News Agency, the Centre highlighted the increasing incidents of hate speech, harassment, cyberbullying, and digitally manipulated content, including fake nude images generated with Artificial Intelligence (AI), which discourage women and young people from speaking out on governance and national issues. At a training workshop organized by GenCED for women in politics, the Centre encouraged participants to remain focused while ensuring their mental wellbeing. Ms. Benedicta Adjo Atidigah, the Programme Officer, emphasized the necessity of equipping women in politics, civic activists, and journalists with practical skills to protect their mental health and digital safety. She noted that women and young people who actively participate in pu blic discourse often face hostile comments and personal attacks, which can lead them to withdraw from political and civic activities. Ms. Atidigah urged victims of online abuse and threats to report such incidents to the appropriate authorities rather than suffering in silence, and to seek assistance from the police and relevant cybercrime authorities, especially in cases of blackmail, threats, or manipulated images. Mr. Douglas Seyram Dordzi, Consultant and Communication Director, GenCED, pointed out that women are particularly vulnerable to online attacks due to persistent societal stereotypes about their capacity to lead. He explained that the digital environment has created new avenues for harassment, fraud, and privacy violations, making digital literacy essential for women in public life. Mr. Dordzi cautioned participants against clicking on suspicious links, as scammers often create a sense of urgency to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information. He warned that a compromised email accoun t could expose personal contacts and information, leading to financial losses and cyberattacks. He also advised women to be cautious about the information they share online, including their locations, family details, and photographs of their children. The training emphasized the importance of having a personal safety plan, including knowing where and how to report digital abuse while ensuring mental well-being. Participants noted that the training renewed their confidence and empowered them to remain active in politics while taking deliberate steps to protect their mental health and digital safety. Ms. Regina Dede Amanquah, a political activist, shared that women in politics often face attacks that extend beyond political issues to their marriages, husbands, and businesses. The training equipped her to disengage from provocative messages, take breaks from her phone, and prioritize her mental health. Similarly, Ms. Jemima Edem Ahiagbor, another political activist, stated that the programme strengthened her r esolve to pursue political leadership despite the challenges confronting women. She called for greater support for women to contest influential political positions, stressing that financial constraints and gender stereotypes should not prevent competent women from participating in decision-making.