The Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equity by joining the global observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, held annually from November 25 to December 10. This year, CPDC is focusing on the theme ‘UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,’ emphasizing the urgent need to combat online harassment, cyberstalking, and non-consensual image sharing. Digital spaces, which have become integral to communication, education, and professional life in the Caribbean, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, should be safe environments for women and girls to connect, empower themselves economically, and express creativity. However, a UN Broadband Commission report highlights that women are 27 times more likely than men to experience cyber violence. Recognizing digital violence as a human rights violation, CPDC calls on civil society organizations to advocate for stronger protections, raise awareness, and provide support for survivors. Collaborative efforts with regional institutions, governments, and the private sector are essential to creating safer, more inclusive digital environments. CPDC suggests several actionable steps for civil society, including advocating for stronger laws, raising awareness through campaigns, providing support services for survivors, partnering with digital platforms to improve safety tools, and fostering cross-sector collaboration. The safety, dignity, and freedom of Caribbean women and girls must extend to all digital spaces, ensuring their full participation in society. Established in 1991 and based in Barbados, CPDC supports over 40 NGOs and partner organizations across the Caribbean, promoting good governance, social justice, human rights, and sustainable development.
