Supported by UNESCO IPDC
Empowering Women in Media Against Digital Gender-Based Violence
Women in media across Africa face a growing threat—technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TF-GBV). Online harassment, misogyny, impersonation, hacking, and AI-driven threats create an unsafe digital environment, affecting both personal well-being and professional credibility. UNESCO-ICFJ reports that 73% of women journalists globally experience online harassment, highlighting the urgent need for action.
TRAKD is a transformative initiative designed to equip female journalists and media stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves against digital SGBV (Sexual and Gender-Based Violence). Guided by the principles of the AWiM23 Kigali Declaration for the Elimination of Violence in and through Media, this project is a crucial step towards ensuring safer digital spaces for women in journalism.
With the support of UNESCO IPDC, TRAKD aims to:
✅ Build capacity through specialised training on AI, TF-GBV, and newsroom safety policies.
✅ Raise awareness about the impact of digital SGBV and the Kigali Declaration’s provisions through social media campaigns and podcast series.
✅ Support policy adoption in newsrooms across Africa.
✅ Facilitate best-practice sharing at the AWiM24 Annual Conference.
Key Focus Areas
To combat the growing risks posed by Artificial Intelligence and technology-facilitated harms, TRAKD will deliver in-depth training on:
- Understanding Generative AI – How AI shapes the media landscape and its potential risks.
- Gender and AI – Addressing biases and vulnerabilities for women in media.
- Ethical AI Reporting – Responsible and gender-sensitive AI journalism.
- Data Provenance Tools – Safeguarding content authenticity and preventing manipulation.
- Internal Policies & Guidelines – Strengthening newsroom policies to protect women journalists.
These training modules will empower media managers, journalists, and freelance content creators to mitigate online threats, accurately report on TF-GBV, and implement sustainable safety measures within their organisations.
Driving Change Through Awareness and Policy
Beyond training, TRAKD will:
📢 Develop awareness campaigns to maximise the impact of the Kigali Declaration.
📊 Monitor and report on the adoption progress of newsroom policies across Africa.
🤝 Engage media stakeholders, policymakers, and advocates in collective action to combat TF-GBV.
Through these efforts, we aim to create a media ecosystem where women journalists can work safely, free from digital violence and AI-driven threats.
Join the Movement
The fight against technology-facilitated gender-based violence starts with awareness, education, and firm policies. Be part of the change—stay updated, engage in discussions, and advocate for safer newsrooms.
🔹 Sign and adopt the Kigali Declaration
🔹 Equip your newsroom with best practices and resources
For more information, please stay connected with TRAKD as we work towards a safer future for women in African media.
