Dhaka CSOs Unite to Combat Gender Disinformation and Protect Marginalized Communities in Digital and Civic Spaces
DHAKA, BANGLADESH – Civil society organizations (CSOs) convened in Dhaka on Wednesday, March 27th, to address the growing concerns of gender disinformation and the marginalization of vulnerable communities in both digital and physical civic spaces. Hosted by Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE) at the YWCA of Bangladesh training center, the meeting underscored the urgent need for inclusive strategies to counter these challenges and uphold the fundamental principle of "Leave No One Behind" (LNOB). The discussions brought together journalists, NGOs, digital rights activists, human rights defenders, and academics to strategize a unified approach to protect freedom of expression and promote gender equality.
A central theme of the meeting was the long-standing marginalization faced by indigenous communities in Bangladesh. Participants stressed the critical need for increased awareness within law enforcement agencies regarding the rights and vulnerabilities of these communities in both online and offline spaces. They advocated for proactive measures to address disinformation campaigns targeting these groups and emphasized the importance of providing them with the tools and resources to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. The meeting highlighted the importance of providing indigenous communities with access to information and platforms to counter harmful narratives and assert their voices.
The CSOs also emphasized the importance of early intervention through education. They called for the integration of respect for socially excluded groups into early childhood education curricula. This, they argued, would lay the foundation for a more inclusive and tolerant society. The speakers, including representatives from Sparc, Bangla Tribune, the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, and Nagorik Udyog, collectively championed inclusive education that empowers individuals to critically analyze information, recognize disinformation, and exercise their rights responsibly. They urged for curricula to include lessons on freedom of expression, civic responsibility, and the "Do No Harm" principle, particularly in the context of online interactions.
Ahmed Swapan Mahmud, Executive Director of VOICE, emphasized the crucial role of collaboration, stating, "The importance of collaboration cannot be overstated. Journalists, NGOs, CSOs, digital rights activists, and human rights defenders must come together to share knowledge, highlight successful strategies, and identify challenges in combating disinformation and protecting individuals’ rights to freedom of expression." He underscored the necessity of a multi-stakeholder approach to create a safe and inclusive digital environment where freedom of expression can thrive.
Promiti Prova Chowdhury, Project Manager at VOICE, presented several recent cases of digital civic space (DCS) violations and gender disinformation, highlighting the escalating threats to free speech and gender equality both online and offline. She emphasized the need for a unified response to counter these threats, stemming from both state and non-state actors. “With threats from state and non-state actors alike, tackling the increasing dangers to free expression requires a unified approach. By joining forces, the various stakeholders can uphold freedom of speech and gender equality online and offline," stated Chowdhury. This collaborative approach would leverage the expertise and resources of diverse stakeholders to effectively address the complex challenges of disinformation and safeguard fundamental rights.
The CSOs also highlighted the divisive tactics employed by certain groups to exacerbate societal tensions. They stressed the urgent need to counter these harmful narratives by incorporating teachings of inclusivity within the educational system. They proposed school-based awareness programs designed to promote respect for marginalized communities and counter the spread of gender disinformation. These programs would equip future generations with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the information landscape and contribute to more inclusive digital and civic spaces. The ultimate aim is to foster a society where individuals are empowered to exercise their rights responsibly, combat discrimination, and promote equality both online and offline.