Tech-facilitated gender-based violence is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed urgently. The recent tragic death of TikToker and Hindu activist Rajeswary “Esha” Appahu has brought this issue to the forefront, prompting the Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO) to call on the communications ministry to take action.
According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), tech-facilitated gender-based violence refers to any act of violence that is committed, assisted, aggravated, or amplified through the use of information and communication technologies or digital media. This type of violence disproportionately affects women, girls, and other minorities, often leading to mental health issues and overall wellbeing.
In the case of Esha, the online harassment she faced went beyond cyberbullying and entered the realm of threats of rape and bodily harm. These threats are not only harmful but also illegal, and should be taken seriously by authorities.
The communications minister’s response to the situation has been mixed. While he acknowledged the need for justice, his statement implying that Esha could have avoided harm by not posting on social media is victim-blaming. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression and information, and should not have to censor themselves to feel safe.
One of the main challenges in addressing tech-facilitated gender-based violence is the lack of governance and rules in digital spaces to protect those who are targeted. Esha did file a police report after receiving threats, but the lack of a timely and appropriate response from authorities highlights the normalization of such threats in society.
The Malaysian Centre for Constitutionalism and Human Rights reports that one in five women face online sexual harassment. This type of harassment not only silences women but also hinders their participation in public life, contributing to low political empowerment rankings for Malaysia.
It is encouraging that the minister has promised to meet with relevant authorities to address online harassment. However, it is crucial that gender is centered in these conversations to ensure that solutions effectively address tech-facilitated gender-based violence and protect women, girls, and other minorities in the digital space.
In conclusion, Esha’s tragic death should serve as a wake-up call to the seriousness of tech-facilitated gender-based violence. It is essential that authorities take swift and appropriate action to address this issue and protect those who are targeted. Only by working together can we create a safer and more inclusive digital space for all.