This year for their 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, UN Women are highlighting the impacts of digital violence against women and girls.
1 in 3 women experience gender-based violence in their lifetime. Up to 58% of women face digital violence in some part of their life - and the workplace is no exception. How can working women combat digital violence at work?
What does digital violence look like in the workplace?
A rise in remote working and fast-changing technology have both contributed to an increase in online workplace bullying; it can occur anytime and anywhere, severely affecting working peoples' wellbeing.
Online workplace bullying refers to harassment occurring in professional settings through digital communication channels like emails, social media, instant messaging, and other online platforms.
Digital violence could look like:
- Sending unwanted and/or harmful messages: This includes threats, insults, or other forms of harassment.
- Spreading rumours or lies: Sharing false information about someone to damage their reputation.
- Disclosing private details without permission: Sharing personal information without consent.
- Sharing embarrassing pictures or videos: Posting or sharing images or videos intended to embarrass or shame someone.
- Creating fake profiles: Using false identities to deceive, harass, or damage a person's reputation.
UN Women warns that this sort of abuse is intensifying and spreading particularly against women and gender minorities.
What should I do if I'm facing digital harassment at work?
• Don't reply: avoid responding to bullying messages or retaliating with mean comments, as engaging with the bully often escalates the situation.
• Talk to someone you trust: Confide in a trusted friend, family member, or coworker for support and to help decide on next steps.
• Review company policies on workplace bullying and make sure they're being adhered to
• If your collective agreement mentions workplace bullying, see if it can be updated to protect against online bullying as well
• Block harmful content: Most social media platforms allow you to report, block, or unfriend accounts. If harmful messages are occurring on work platforms, discuss the issue with your union rep or your manager.
