Call for Projects to Combat Digital Gender-Based Violence in Cape Verde
A Call for projects to combat gender-based digital violence in Africa, the Near East and the Middle East represents a crucial opportunity for Cape Verde to strengthen its initiatives to protect and support victims of online violence. The issue of gender-based digital violence (GBV) is unfortunately a growing reality globally, and Cape Verde is no exception. The increased use of the internet and social networks has brought with it new forms of abuse and harassment, which disproportionately affect women and girls. This call for projects aims precisely to empower organisations and individuals to develop innovative and effective solutions to prevent and combat this scourge.
VDBG takes many forms, from cyber-harassment and online defamation, to the non-consensual dissemination of intimate images, to trolling and incitement to hatred. The impacts of this violence can be devastating, including severe psychological damage, social isolation, economic hardship and, in extreme cases, even suicide. In Cape Verde, as in other countries, GBV perpetuates existing gender inequalities and hinders the full exercise of women's rights.
It is imperative that concrete measures are taken to tackle this problem. This call for projects offers a platform for civil society organisations, universities, research centres and other relevant entities in Cape Verde to submit proposals that can contribute to raising awareness, preventing, responding to and mitigating GBV. Projects should focus on various areas, such as:
- Education and awareness-raising: Development of educational materials and awareness-raising campaigns to educate the public about GBV, its consequences and how to prevent it.
- Training: Training professionals (such as police, judges, teachers and social workers) to deal properly with cases of GBV.
- Victim Support: Creation and strengthening of support services for victims of GBV, including telephone helplines, psychological counselling and legal assistance.
- Research and Data: Collection of data on the prevalence and characteristics of GBV in Cape Verde, to inform the development of effective policies and programmes.
- Advocacy and Public Policy: Promoting legislative changes and public policies to criminalise and punish GBV, and to guarantee the protection of victims.
Project proposals must demonstrate a clear understanding of the local context, including the specific challenges that women and girls face in Cape Verde in relation to GBV. They must also present a solid methodology and a realistic implementation plan, with clear indicators to measure the impact of the actions.
This is an exceptional opportunity for Cape Verde to lead the way in combating GBV in the region. By investing in innovative and collaborative projects, we can create a safer and more inclusive online environment for everyone. We encourage all organisations and individuals with ideas and solutions to this problem to submit their proposals. A determined joint effort is key to eradicating gender-based digital violence and building a future where all people can fully participate in digital society without fear of abuse and harassment.
The deadline for submitting applications is 31 August 2025. For more information and to submit your proposal, visit [here].
