Hopes and Actions Foundation is proud to announce a new program dedicated to combating online gender-based violence (OGBV) in Sudan. This vital initiative is funded by the Feminist Tech Joy Grant, an initiative of the Association for Progressive Communications (APC).

Sudan is currently facing a devastating conflict that has exacerbated existing gender inequalities and fueled a surge in online violence against women. Women activists, journalists, and those simply expressing their opinions online are being targeted with sexualized harassment, threats, and intimidation. This program directly confronts this alarming trend by empowering Sudanese women with the skills and resources needed to document, analyze, and combat OGBV.

The program will focus on:

• Documenting OGBV: Participants will learn how to gather evidence and testimonies of online abuse effectively.
• Conducting Research: The program will support the production of research papers exploring the specific tactics used to target women online and the impact of OGBV on diverse communities in Sudan.
• Advocating for Change: Participants will be empowered to disseminate their findings and advocate for policies and interventions to address OGBV.
• Building Community: The program will foster solidarity and support networks among survivors of OGBV.

“Hopes and Actions Foundation is committed to working in partnership with Sudanese women to address the multifaceted challenges they face in the digital sphere. This program is crucial to creating a safer and more inclusive online environment for all.”

The alarming rise in OGBV underscores the urgent need for immediate action from the international community, social media platforms, and the African Union.