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Description
Investigating and preventing image-based sexual abuse, its uncontrolled spread through technological means (such as social media) and the harmful effects on its main victims (young women) is the focus of the FAZ DELETE project. The project aims to raise awareness of this problem in society and draw the attention of government and legislative authorities in order to propose legislative changes, resource allocation and response mechanisms. The programme includes the development of research to define and quantify the issue, which may be developed into a policy paper for political and legislative effects. The programme will also include an awareness campaign and dissemination through social media.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the significant challenges posed by digital society in relation to sexual violence, particularly through the lens of Image-Based Sexual Abuse (IBSA), often colloquially referred to as "revenge porn." IBSA involves the unauthorized and non-consensual creation or distribution of sexual images, which introduces complex ethical, social, and legal issues. These challenges are exacerbated by the ease of dissemination and the potential permanence of digital content, making it a particularly insidious form of abuse.
The project sought a multidisciplinary and empathetic approach to the evolving challenges of sexual violence in the digital age, with a specific focus on Image-Based Sexual Abuse (IBSA) and its disproportionate impact on young women aged 18-25. By focusing on research, awareness-raising, advocacy, and policy development, the project carried out the following:
1 - Data Collection on the expression of IBSA, specifically targeting a high-risk demographic: young women aged 18-25 years, so as to help understand the prevalence, impact, and specific dynamics of IBSA within this group.
2 - Mapping media representations of IBSA. The project analyzed how IBSA is portrayed in the media, crucial for understanding public perceptions, biases, and the framing of the issue.
3 - Awareness campaign for young people. The project developed a campaign created with and for young people, intended to raise awareness in a non-blaming way, ie, without victim-blaming so as to foster a supportive environment for survivors and encourage reporting.
4 - Systematization of recommendations for decision-makers. The project compiled and organized recommendations based on its findings, targeting political decision-makers. These recommendations were designed to inform policy and legal reforms to better address IBSA.
5 - Workshops with stakeholders. The project conducted workshops with entities and structures working in the field of sexual violence. These workshops aimed to share knowledge, strategies, and best practices, fostering collaboration among stakeholders. The goal was to develop a policy paper in a democratic and participatory manner.
6 - Policy Advocacy and Legal Input. As part of the project, the promoter''s legal position was drafted in response to bills proposed by various political parties relating to IBSA. This legal input was shared and presented to influence legislative processes and ensure that proposed laws effectively address the complexities of IBSA.
In quantitative terms, the following was achieved:
- 27 NGOs engaged in advocacy work on human rights;
- 26 youths mobilised by NGOs to engage in human rights work;
- 2 awareness raising campaigns carried out;
- 100% share of target group showing concern for human rights;
- 1 national policy and law influenced.
In terms of capacity building, the promoter carried out a needs assessment and prepared an action plan. 3 professionals received training in accounting, hr management and project management and impact evaluation.
All proposed targets were met and exceeded.