Deconstructing TFGBV: Exploring Perspectives and Pathways Forward – SHE LEADS Webinar: Episode 1

• Resource Persons: Rachel Bowen and Judy Karioko of IREX
• Hosts: Dharini Priscilla and Christine Sumog-oy

Welcome to our first episode of the SHE LEADS Webinar! Christine Sumog-oy and Dharini Priscilla from Search for Common Ground and the SHE LEADS project were joined by Rachel Bowen, the Technical Advisor for TFGBV at IREX in the U.S., and Judy Karioko, the Senior Program Officer at IREX in Kenya. We were excited to have such an esteemed panel to engage with us in this important discussion!

In this webinar, the speakers explored their understanding of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) and examined local interpretations across various contexts, emphasizing the human factors that contribute to the issue and how technology amplifies it. They distinguished between TFGBV associated with intimate partner and domestic violence and the harassment faced by women and gender-diverse leaders online, discussing the implications for their public presence. The speakers addressed the heightened risks faced by women in public roles—such as politicians, journalists, and human rights defenders—along with the challenges encountered by other affected groups. They delved into data inconsistencies surrounding TFGBV, identified gaps in evidence, and highlighted the need for collaboration between researchers and practitioners to enhance understanding. Additionally, the discussions covered the specific impacts of TFGBV on marginalized communities, accountability challenges, and the barriers women face when reporting incidents. Finally, they examined the intersectionality of TFGBV with other forms of discrimination and identified effective strategies for engaging men and boys as allies in prevention efforts.