The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media: Amplifying vs. Addressing Gender-Based Violence

Presenting a ‘double-edged sword’ argument, the article outlines how social media in India has simultaneously been used to enhance gender-based violence (GBV) but also to advocate against it, connect groups trying to support victims of GBV, disseminate information surrounding GBV, and raise awareness about GBV. Social media provides anonymity, virality and echo chambers, allowing cyberstalking, non-consensual pornography and other forms of online harassment to enhance GBV. However, social media also provides the best way for advocacy against GBV, as well as connecting those yearning for assistance with those who can provide it, spreading information about GBV and increasing awareness of the issue. The article uses the highly successful #MeToo campaign as an exemplar of how social media has facilitated public discourse and action. The article calls for a comprehensive strategy laden with legal reforms, policy innovation, technological advancements and cultural shifts towards gender sensitization and digital responsibility, appealing to all stakeholders to build a collective response to harness the positive capabilities of social media as well as mitigate its negative impacts on GBV.