Women in Media NGO took part in online consultations organized by the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) as part of a study on the digital dimension of the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
The study conducted by United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute aims to analyse how different forms of digital violence affect women in conflict and post-conflict contexts, including Ukraine.
Representing UNICRI at the consultations were Manuela Brunero, Programme Officer, and Margherita Zambelli, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Advisor.
During the meeting, “Women in Media” shared its experience in researching and documenting online violence against women journalists in Ukraine, as well as discussed key challenges and trends that have intensified in the context of the ongoing war.
In particular, the consultations covered the following issues:
- how the war has changed the nature, scale, and narratives of online attacks against women in media;
- which forms of online violence are currently most widespread (including threats, sexualised comments, defamation, and others);
- the links between gender-based online violence and broader disinformation campaigns;
- who the main actors behind such attacks are;
- how digital violence affects women’s professional activity, visibility, and safety;
- whether these patterns extend to other groups of women, including human rights defenders and women working in the security and defence sector.
A separate part of the discussion focused on responses and solutions:
- how women journalists and media organisations currently respond to digital threats;
- which measures by media, platforms, and public policy actors could be most effective in preventing and addressing online violence.
The participation of “Women in Media” in this study is important to ensure that Ukraine’s experience—particularly in the context of war—is reflected in international approaches to countering digital violence and protecting women.
As a reminder, according to a survey conducted by “Women in Media” in partnership with UNESCO in 2025, 81% of respondents (180 women media professionals in total) reported experiencing some form of online violence. Among those affected, 14% stated that threats from the digital space had escalated into offline, physical risks.
Background: United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute was established in 1968 as an autonomous institution within the United Nations system. The Institute works on crime prevention, justice system development, and strengthening the rule of law, while promoting human rights and sustainable development. UNICRI’s work contributes, in particular, to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 16 — building peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.