Digital Safety for Structurally Silenced Womxn in Urban Setting.
According to UN Women, over 44% of Ugandan womxn have experienced technology-facilitated gender-based violence. This means that nearly half of all womxn in the country have faced harassment, surveillance, cyberstalking, or other forms of online abuse. The reality is even harsher for structurally silenced groups like LBQ womxn, who are often targeted simply for existing in digital spaces.
HER Internet, a feminist-led organization working to create safer digital environments for womxn, has long prioritized equipping structurally silenced communities with the tools to navigate online threats. Recently, Mulungi Sanyu, Communications Director at HER Internet, joined the Q-Media Advocacy podcast to shed light on the pressing need for digital safety for LBQ womxn living in urban areas. Speaking about the threats that come with being visible online, Mulungi noted, “Where there is an opportunity, there is a threat.” She emphasized that while the internet provides a powerful platform for advocacy, networking, and visibility, it also exposes womxn to targeted attacks such as online harassment and digital surveillance.
In Uganda, womxn face an unsettling range of online threats, including phishing scams, cyberstalking, hate speech, doxxing, and digital blackmail. Their online presence is often weaponized against them, leading to fear and self-censorship. Many womxn are forced to constantly assess the risks of speaking up, connecting with others, or even existing visibly online. Mulungi pointed out, “If an LBQ womxn knows how to safely navigate the internet, she won’t have to exclude herself because of cyber threats.” However, the challenges they face vary depending on where they live. In urban areas, access to technology is higher, and digital literacy levels are generally better, but this also means greater exposure to online risks. On the other hand, womxn in rural areas have limited access to digital literacy programs and fewer resources to protect themselves online, leaving them even more vulnerable to online attacks.
The consequences of online violence go beyond just internet access and extend to mental health, activism, and professional opportunities. “When a womxn is constantly harassed online, it creates emotional and psychological stress. She may withdraw from advocacy or even the internet altogether,” Mulungi explained. This kind of suppression is particularly harmful for LBQ activists, as it prevents them from mobilizing, participating in discussions, and exercising their right to freedom of expression. Over time, this withdrawal contributes to a shrinking civic space where fewer voices are able to challenge harmful narratives or fight for change.
Mulungi stressed that digital safety is not just about individual protection but also about sustaining advocacy and community connections. HER Internet works to ensure that LBQ womxn have the knowledge and tools to navigate the internet securely. One of the key ways to stay safe is by practicing strong security measures such as enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), using secure messaging apps like Signal, and protecting devices with Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Another important aspect of digital safety is building community support by creating trusted networks where womxn can share safety tips and report threats. Digital literacy is also a critical part of online safety, and womxn can strengthen their knowledge by participating in workshops, following cybersecurity campaigns, and staying informed about emerging digital threats. HER Internet provides direct support for LBQ womxn who experience online harassment and runs capacity-building workshops to strengthen digital resilience, ensuring that structurally silenced communities are not forced into digital invisibility due to fear.
While personal safety practices are important, real change must happen at a systemic level. Mulungi emphasized that tech companies and policymakers have a responsibility to create safer online environments. “We need to promote digital inclusion to reduce the gender divide in internet access. It’s also crucial for tech companies to be held accountable for addressing online harassment and hate speech,” she stated. Beyond corporate responsibility, stronger laws must be enacted to criminalize cyberbullying, digital blackmail, and online violence against structurally silenced groups.
Mulungi concluded with a call to action, reminding all womxn that digital security is a continuous effort. “We must continue empowering ourselves with digital security skills. Something as simple as creating a strong password can make a difference,” she urged.
To listen to the full conversation and gain deeper insights into digital safety for LBQ womxn, check out the Q-Media Advocacy podcast here: https://youtu.be/V8_LpkWNzJ4?si=RSRrC3L0Yvo-s5sA