Security, technological, awareness efforts to combat online violence against women

Through a series of interviews conducted with a member of the Internal Security Forces – Women’s Division, a journalist who follows women’s issues, an active community figure, and a psychological specialist, we shed light on the causes, forms, and impacts of online violence, as well as the efforts being made to protect women in North and East Syria and to promote digital literacy within the Syrian community.

Afaf al-Kabaa, a member of the Confederation of Democratic Society Organizations (TEV-DEM), pointed out that women in the North and East Syria region, particularly those working within the institutions of the Autonomous Administration are being targeted by online attacks on virtual social media platforms.

Speaking to ANHA agency, Afaf explained that such practices place women under immense social pressure and hinder their ability to perform their professional roles, calling for respect for personal privacy and for avoiding dragging women into online disputes.

For her part, Nada Muhammad, a journalist at Jin TV, spoke about campaigns aimed at defaming women, saying:

“Women in the North and East Syria region face a systematic media war designed to undermine their presence and distort their image, especially amid recent campaigns against violence toward women.”

Nada added: “The online war against women represents an extension of ongoing attempts to exploit women and suppress their free voice,” noting that the growing role of women since the Women’s Revolution and their success in assuming leadership positions and participating in decision-making within the Autonomous Administration and women’s organizations has made them direct targets of media attacks and online blackmail.

She emphasized that despite the progress women have achieved, they continue to face multiple forms of warfare, including orchestrated media campaigns by hostile entities aiming to erase their identity and distort their achievements, particularly those who have made notable advances in North and East Syria.

Nada pointed out that female journalists in the region face difficulties conducting interviews and conveying women’s perspectives, stating:
“There is a clear fear among women of appearing publicly due to constant targeting by inciting groups that engage in systematic online violence.”

She added that online violence is one of the main factors preventing many women from engaging with the media, in addition to certain customs and traditions that restrict women’s freedom and reinforce patriarchal mindsets.

Nada concluded: “Media is a double-edged sword, but here in North and East Syria, we strive to use its positive side to support women and defend their true presence. The war on women has existed for ages, but today it manifests clearly in the digital space.”

Security and Legal Measures

Mahdiya Hindi Hilal, a leader within the Internal Security Forces of North and East Syria, confirmed:

“The Internal Security Forces pay increasing attention to complaints filed by women, particularly those related to defamation or threats made via virtual communication platforms,” noting that these cases are handled in accordance with legal procedures that ensure the protection of victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

Mahdiya explained that the approach to women-related complaints varies depending on the nature of the offense. However, in cases of online defamation, especially when the perpetrator is known investigations begin immediately after the victim files an official complaint at Internal Security Force centers.

The investigation includes collecting technical and digital evidence that proves the defamation incident, documenting the necessary reports, and then referring the file to the Public Prosecutor’s Office along with all investigation results. She clarified that this type of crime is punishable under Article (226) of the Penal Code in the North and East Syria region.

She added: “In such cases, the complainant must file a personal legal claim, which allows us as a security institution to act legally and effectively. We conduct technical searches and investigations to determine the source of the defamation or threat, using available digital tools to identify the perpetrator, arrest them, and refer them to the Public Prosecutor for legal prosecution.”

Mahdiya stressed that investigative teams work to gather and analyze digital evidence to identify the offender. After completing the investigation, the necessary legal documents are prepared before the case is referred to the judiciary.

She concluded by emphasizing that every case of defamation or threat is handled with full seriousness, because protecting women and safeguarding their dignity lies at the core of “our security and humanitarian mission.”

Psychological Warnings and Protective Measures

Psychiatrist Nariman Zaki Mahmoud warned of the growing phenomenon of cyberbullying and defamation targeting women online, stressing that this behavior is spreading at an alarming rate driven by motives such as revenge, anger, a desire for control, personal psychological issues, or biased beliefs against women.

She noted that the digital environment gives some individuals a false sense of immunity from accountability, which fuels and intensifies this behavior.

Nariman confirmed that the spread of cyberbullying culture and the lack of awareness regarding respect and proper upbringing contribute to reinforcing such practices. She urged the public not to engage with defamatory campaigns or repost them, but rather to report them through official channels provided by digital platforms.

The psychiatrist offered a message of support to every woman experiencing cyberbullying, saying:

“You are strong and capable of overcoming this experience. Do not allow others’ abuse to diminish your worth or self-confidence. Remember that you deserve respect and dignity, that your voice matters, and that true support comes from within and from your supportive environment.”

She called on online users to act responsibly and with composure when commenting or interacting online, saying:

“Do not respond with anger or violence. Guide discussions toward awareness and positivity, highlight the dangers of cyberbullying against women, and be role models in promoting respect and equality while contributing to building a safe digital environment.”

Protection Measures

Nariman stressed the need to adopt practical measures to protect women in the digital world, including implementing awareness campaigns on women’s rights and the dangers of cyberbullying; enacting strict laws and policies criminalizing online abuse; establishing psychological and legal support centers for victims; enabling women with tools for digital protection and identity concealment; reinforcing the media’s role in promoting positive and supportive content for women; and supporting community initiatives that create a safe and inclusive environment for women.

Among these community initiatives is the broad awareness campaign launched by the Sara Organization for Combating Violence Against Women in North and East Syria and Aleppo. The campaign lasted nearly two months and aimed to highlight online violence and address it through awareness activities, psychological support sessions, and legal consultations for affected women.

ANHA