In Islamabad the Royal Norwegian Embassy joined the Legal Aid Society on Human Rights Day to confront digital violence against women and girls as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence. The collaboration emphasised that digital violence is a pressing human rights concern that undermines safety and equal participation online.
Norway reiterated its steadfast commitment to gender equality, human rights and access to justice both offline and online, and framed the Islamabad discussions around ensuring these principles inform Pakistan’s response to online harms. Participants from civil society and the diplomatic community underlined that protecting women and girls in digital spaces is integral to broader rights protection across the country.
Speakers stressed that no one should have to choose between being online and being safe, and that technology-facilitated violence requires serious attention and concrete measures. Calls focused on strengthening prevention, improving reporting and redress options, and building capacity so survivors can access justice without facing further harm from digital violence.
The conversations also acknowledged the opportunities technology offers for empowerment when safeguards are in place, urging coordinated action by government, platforms and civil society. The clear message from the event was that technological progress must protect human rights, dignity and equal participation for all.
