The Cultural Implications of Online Gender-Based Violence and Meta’s Policies

Breakthrough Trust, a leading Indian organization, recently shed light on the cultural implications of online gender-based violence and the policies implemented by Meta, the parent company of social media giants like Facebook and Instagram. In their report, they brought attention to the fact that nonconsensual imagery, such as revenge porn, is often brushed off as mere identity theft rather than being recognized as a form of gender-based violence.

One of the key points highlighted by Breakthrough Trust was the challenges faced by victims when trying to report such cases. Due to the lack of awareness among users and the rigid reporting channels provided by social media platforms, many victims find it difficult to seek help and justice for the harm inflicted upon them.

The organization stressed the need for increased user awareness regarding online gender-based violence and the importance of providing more flexible and accessible reporting channels for victims. By doing so, social media platforms can play a crucial role in preventing such incidents and supporting those who have fallen victim to them.

Breakthrough Trust’s report serves as a wake-up call for both social media companies and users alike, urging them to take a stand against online gender-based violence and work towards creating a safer and more inclusive online environment for everyone.