Ukraine’s Women in Media: Networking Amid War

The Rising Tide of Online Abuse: How Ukrainian Women Journalists are Fighting Back – and What it Means for the US

Imagine receiving a threat so vile, so personal, it chills you to the bone. For Ukrainian journalist Mariana Chornievich, that nightmare became reality when she received an anonymous email threatening to insert her image into a pornographic video. This isn’t an isolated incident; its a symptom of a growing crisis: Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) targeting women journalists in Ukraine,and the implications are far-reaching,even for the United States.

The Ukrainian Frontline: A Battle Against Gendered Disinformation

Liza Kuzmenko, head of Women in Media (WIM) Ukraine, highlights a disturbing trend: online attacks against female journalists intensify after they publish investigative pieces on war, corruption, or human rights. These attacks aren’t just random acts of harassment; they’re frequently enough coordinated campaigns designed to silence critical voices.

“Narratives about Ukrainian women depict them as enemies of Ukraine, and are accompanied with open calls for physical violence against them; the technology of doxing on social media with subsequent dissemination of this information is also employed,” Kuzmenko explains. this weaponization of technology to silence women is a tactic that resonates far beyond Ukraine’s borders.

The “Her Voice, Their Target” Report: Unveiling the Scope of the Problem

WIM’s comprehensive report, “Her Voice, Their Target: Gendered Online Violence Against Ukrainian Women Journalists,” reveals the shocking reality: moast women journalists in Ukraine have encountered some form of online violence.This isn’t just about hurt feelings; it’s about undermining democracy and silencing crucial voices during a time of war.

WIM has also launched an interactive online map to document these incidents, providing a crucial resource for understanding the scale and nature of the attacks.

Why Should Americans Care? The Global Implications of TFGBV

While the situation in Ukraine might seem distant, the rise of TFGBV has profound implications for the United States. The tactics used to silence Ukrainian women journalists – deepfakes, doxing, online harassment – are increasingly prevalent in the US, targeting journalists, politicians, and everyday citizens.

rapid Fact: According to a 2023 report by the International Center for Journalists, nearly three-quarters of women journalists worldwide have experienced online violence. This is a global problem that demands a global solution.

The normalization of online abuse can have a chilling effect on free speech,particularly for women. If journalists fear for their safety and well-being, they may be less likely to report on controversial topics, leading to a less informed and less democratic society.

Women in Media: A Beacon of Hope in a Time of Crisis

Founded in 2019, Women in Media (WIM) Ukraine has become a vital support network for over 1,500 female journalists, editors, and media professionals. they provide legal, psychological, and informational support to journalists affected by war and online violence, while also raising public awareness about these issues.

Since the full-scale invasion in 2022, WIM has adapted to the changing needs of its members, supporting war correspondents on the front lines and women in leadership positions. They understand that empowering women in media is crucial for ensuring accurate and diverse reporting during times of crisis.

Expert Tip: WIM’s work highlights the importance of peer-to-peer support networks for women in male-dominated industries. These networks provide a safe space for women to share their experiences, access resources, and build solidarity.

The Impact of War: A Double Burden for Ukrainian Women Journalists

The war in Ukraine has placed an immense burden on all ukrainians, but women journalists face unique challenges. Many have had to relocate, care for families, and navigate financial insecurity, all while working under the constant pressure of hybrid threats and disinformation.

The tragic death of journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, who was tortured and killed while in Russian custody, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones. Despite these risks, Ukrainian women in media continue to work with courage and determination.

WIM’s Programs: Addressing Inequality and Promoting Well-being

WIM’s work focuses on two main areas: equality in newsrooms and equality in content. They advocate for equal access to leadership positions, fair pay, and opportunities for growth for women in media. They also challenge sexism, promote female leadership, and defend women’s rights through journalism.

One of WIM’s flagship initiatives is the “Caring for Our Health” program, which provides women media professionals with resources to prioritize their health, especially in times of war and chronic stress. This program recognizes that supporting the well-being of journalists is essential for ensuring their long-term sustainability.

Did you know? Studies have shown that women journalists are more likely to experience burnout and mental health issues then their male counterparts, particularly in high-stress environments.

The Gender Gap in Ukrainian Media: A Persistent Challenge

While women make up the majority of the workforce in Ukrainian media, they are significantly underrepresented in leadership positions. According to WIM’s “Gender Profile Of Ukrainian Media,” women may account for 70-80% of journalists, but only make up just over 50% of those in media management roles.

This gender gap is not unique to Ukraine; it’s a persistent challenge in media industries around the world. Addressing this inequality requires systemic changes, including promoting women to leadership positions, providing mentorship opportunities, and challenging gender stereotypes.

Pros and Cons: Addressing the Gender Gap in Media

• Pros: Increased diversity of perspectives, improved representation of women’s issues, enhanced credibility with female audiences.
• Cons: Potential backlash from those resistant to change, challenges in overcoming deeply ingrained biases, need for proactive measures to ensure equal opportunities.

International Support: A Lifeline for Ukrainian Journalists

the international community has provided immense support to Ukrainian media, and this solidarity has made a notable difference to WIM. Emergency grants, equipment, safety training, and messages of support have reminded Ukrainian journalists that their work matters and that the world is paying attention.

This international support is not just about providing financial assistance; it’s about standing in solidarity with journalists who are fighting for truth and democracy in the face of adversity.

Lessons for the World: Resilience, Innovation, and Shared Challenges

Ukrainian journalists have had to adapt quickly, work under extreme pressure, and invent new ways to stay safe, connected, and effective. Their experience may be valuable to the international media community as we all navigate growing threats and uncertainty.

The rise of TFGBV and the risks and uncertainties brought by artificial intelligence are global issues that require shared understanding and common solutions. By learning from the experiences of Ukrainian journalists, we can better protect journalists around the world and ensure the future of free and self-reliant media.

Call to Action: Support organizations like Women in Media Ukraine that are working to protect women journalists and promote media freedom. Share this article to raise awareness about the issue of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence.

The Chilling Rise of Online Abuse: A Conversation with Expert Dr. Anya Sharma on Protecting Women Journalists

Keywords: online abuse, women journalists, Ukraine, technology-facilitated gender-based violence, TFGBV, free speech, media freedom, Women in Media Ukraine, disinformation, online harassment, doxing, cyber security, digital safety, gender equality

the digital landscape, while offering unprecedented opportunities for data sharing, has also become a breeding ground for online abuse, especially targeting women journalists. Recently, Time.news explored how Ukrainian women journalists are fighting back against technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) and what it means for the United States. To delve deeper into this critical issue, we spoke with Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in digital security and gendered disinformation.

Time.news: Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us. The Time.news article highlighted the shocking prevalence of online abuse against Ukrainian women journalists. What makes this situation particularly concerning?

Dr. Anya Sharma: The situation in Ukraine underscores the weaponization of technology to silence critical voices, especially those of women. As the article notes, organizations like Women in Media (WIM) ukraine are seeing a disturbing trend: online attacks escalate after female journalists publish investigative pieces, be it on war, corruption, or human rights.These aren’t isolated incidents; they are often coordinated campaigns designed to intimidate and silence. The use of doxing, deepfakes, and targeted harassment has profound implications not just for those journalists but for the health of Ukrainian democracy and freedom of the press.

Time.news: The article mentions the “Her Voice, Their Target” report by WIM Ukraine. What key findings from this report stand out?

Dr. Sharma: The report emphasizes the sheer scale of the problem. Most women journalists in Ukraine have faced some form of online violence. Remember, this isn’t just about someone being rude online. We’re talking about threats of sexual violence, doxing to endanger their safety, and deliberate campaigns to undermine their credibility.The impact goes beyond just the individual; it creates a chilling effect on journalism itself,discouraging women from reporting on sensitive issues. The interactive online map developed by WIM is a crucial tool to document these incidents, providing concrete evidence of the problem’s severity.

Time.news: The Time.news article raises the point that while this is happening in Ukraine, should Americans care?

dr. Sharma: Absolutely. What’s happening in ukraine is a stark warning. The tactics used to silence Ukrainian women journalists – deepfakes, doxing, online harassment – are increasingly prevalent in the United States and globally. We’re seeing these tactics used against journalists, politicians, activists, and everyday citizens. The normalization of online abuse has a chilling effect on free speech everywhere, it’s not isolated only in war zones. If journalists fear for their safety and well-being, they may be less likely to report on controversial topics, leading to a less informed and less democratic society. The rise of TFGBV anywhere threatens the freedom of speech everywhere.

Time.news: What practical steps can be taken to combat TFGBV and protect women journalists?

Dr. sharma: Several steps are crucial. First, we need greater awareness. Articles like the one on Time.news are vital for raising consciousness of the issue. Second, there needs to be stronger legislation and enforcement to hold perpetrators of online abuse accountable. This is complex, as laws must balance free speech with the need to protect individuals from harm. Third, education and digital literacy are essential. Journalists, and everyone, need to be aware of best practices for online security, including using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and being cautious about what personal information they share online. fourth, organizations like WIM Ukraine provide invaluable legal, psychological, and informational support. Supporting and amplifying these organizations is critical.

time.news: Women in media Ukraine seems to be making a meaningful impact. What lessons can be learned from their approach?

Dr. Sharma: WIM’s work highlights the importance of peer-to-peer support networks. These networks provide a safe space for women to share their experiences, access resources, and build solidarity. It’s also about creating a culture of support within newsrooms and the media industry as a whole, where women feel empowered to speak out against abuse and discrimination. The “Caring for Our Health” program is a great initiative, highlighting that taking care of Journalists well-being is crucial for their long-term sustainability, especially in high-stress environments. Also, their focus on gender equality both in newsrooms and contents reported must be taken as an example in other countries too.

Time.news: What resources woudl you recommend for women journalists who are experiencing online abuse?

Dr. Sharma: There are several excellent organizations that offer support and resources, but as the article suggests, here are some vital options:

Women in Media Ukraine: Their website offers a wealth of information and resources, including legal assistance and psychological support. ([hypothetical website])

International Center for Journalists (ICFJ): The ICFJ offers training and resources on digital security and safety for journalists worldwide. ([ICFJ real website])

OnlineSOS: This institution provides resources and support for victims of online harassment and abuse. ([OnlineSOS real website])

article 19: An international human rights organization that works to protect freedom of expression. ([Article 19 real website])

Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ): defends the right of journalists worldwide to report the news safely and without fear of reprisal. ([CPJ real website])

Seek help from mental health professionals with experience in trauma and abuse.

* Contact local law enforcement about online abuse. gather evidence to support a legal claim, if able.

Time.news: Dr. Sharma, thank you for sharing your expertise and insights. This is clearly a critical issue that demands our attention.

Dr. Sharma: Thank you for bringing attention to this critically important issue. We all have a role to play in creating a safer and more equitable online environment for women journalists.