Doha: The National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), in collaboration with the Qatar Lawyers Association, organized a panel discussion focusing on women in the digital age, exploring the dual themes of empowerment and cyber violence. This event was part of the "16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence" campaign, initiated by the Ministry of Social Development and Family, in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.
According to Qatar News Agency, the panel featured experts from various sectors, including legal, judicial, security, academic, and civil society, who gathered to discuss the challenges women face in cyberspace. The discussion highlighted the global digital transformation that offers women new opportunities in education and entrepreneurship, while also exposing them to cyber violence such as blackmail, defamation, and economic exploitation via digital platforms.
HE Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairperson of the NHRC, emphasized that the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women underscores the collective responsibility to uphold women's dignity and safety. She reiterated Qatar's commitment to justice and equality, and the importance of safeguarding women in both real and digital environments.
HE Al Attiyah also pointed out that digital crimes such as blackmail, harassment, and privacy breaches extend beyond individuals to affect family and societal security. She stressed the need for a collaborative effort from all state institutions to build a secure digital environment where women can thrive.
The panel discussion also addressed Qatar's legislative advancements and measures to combat digital crimes, including its accession to the Convention on Cybercrime. HE Al Attiyah noted that protecting and empowering women digitally is crucial for societal progress.
HE Eng. Abdulrahman bin Ali Al Farahid Al Malki, President of the National Cyber Security Agency, discussed the increasing digital risks faced by women and emphasized the importance of digital empowerment as a societal cornerstone. He highlighted initiatives like the National Digital Safety Initiative, which has benefited thousands of women and girls, reflecting Qatar's leadership in digital safety.
Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs HE Sheikha Sheikha bint Jassim bin Ahmed Al-Thani emphasized digital empowerment as a fundamental right and aligned it with international conventions. She highlighted Qatar's efforts to coordinate protective measures through governmental and non-governmental collaborations.
Lawyer Asma Al Ghanem underscored the opportunities and challenges of the digital world for women, advocating for strong legal protections and societal awareness to combat electronic violence. She called for comprehensive legislative and institutional support to ensure women's safety in digital spaces.
HE Sultan bin Hassan Al Jamali, Secretary-General of the NHRC, concluded the session with recommendations for enhancing the national legislative framework, developing confidential reporting platforms, and increasing digital awareness through national media campaigns and educational initiatives.
The discussion reaffirmed that protecting women in the digital age is a shared national responsibility, requiring coordinated efforts to maintain a safe electronic space that respects women's rights and contributions to national development.