Special Event on Digital and Online Violence Held at LCWU

By Farzana Chaudhry
Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Lahore College for Women University (LCWU) held a special event on digital and online violence as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The event was organized in collaboration with UNFPA Pakistan, Digital Rights Foundation, and the Department of Gender Studies.

Chairperson Punjab Women Protection Authority, Hina Parvez Butt, attended as the guest of honor.

Speaking on the occasion, Hina Parvez Butt said that while technology has created many opportunities, it has also increased risks for women and girls. She highlighted the growing problems of online harassment, blackmail, image-based abuse, and fake profiles, calling for strong measures to tackle these issues.

She informed students that the Punjab Women Protection Authority, along with the FIA Cyber Crime Wing and the National Cyber Crime Agency (NCCI), provides both legal and psychological support to victims of online crimes. She advised young women to stay alert online and shared that help is available through the 1737 helpline, online portal, email, and FIA Cyber Crime Reporting Centers.

The event also included a workshop titled “Beyond the Screen: Navigating the Online Space for Women and Girls.” Students took part in discussions and group activities on issues like online harassment, image-based abuse, stalking, hate speech, and catfishing, and presented their suggestions.

In her closing remarks, Hina Parvez Butt said that the digital world is a real part of life, and online harm must be treated seriously. She stressed the need for joint efforts by law enforcement agencies, digital platforms, educational institutions, and society to end online violence. She reaffirmed her commitment to continue leading this campaign through the Punjab Women Protection Authority.

The Authority thanked LCWU, UNFPA Pakistan, Digital Rights Foundation, and all speakers for their contributions.