It is estimated that 95% of Pakistan’s female journalists facing online violence feel it has affected their professional work According to a report by Media Matters for Democracy, 77% of women journalists censor themselves in order to avoid online abuse. The report took notice of the fact that while abuse exists in physical spaces it can be faced online too, especially for women journalists who pose no threat to abusers. They also reported that 3 out of 10 women journalists have been blackmailed or similarly victimised online. The report highlighted the serious repercussions for online abuse, revealing that 105 out of 110 women believed cyber violence had impacted their mental health.
“The sexualised and personal nature of abuse directed towards them not only affects them on a personal level, but also affects journalism in general that is heavily occupied by men leaving no room for women’s voices,” said Hija Kamran, author of the study.
The study into violence against female journalists was launched to coincide with the International Day to End Impunity against Journalists on November 2 (today). Read more from ProperGaanda: Woman Violently Attacked By Lawyers Outside Narowal Court