Call for inclusive digital and civic space to combat gender disinformation

A group of civil society organisations (CSOs) has called for greater inclusivity in digital and civic spaces to combat gender disinformation.

The call was made during a networking meeting hosted by Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE) at the YWCA training centre in Dhaka, according to a press release. 

Participants said that civic space should not be dominated by the majority but remain open to all, in line with the global principle of "Leave No One Behind" (LNOB).

Discussions highlighted the long-standing marginalisation of indigenous communities across different regimes in Bangladesh.

Participants also underscored the urgency of building awareness among law enforcement agencies and embedding respect for socially excluded groups within early childhood education.

Gender Lead at Sparc Dalia Chakma, City Editor at Bangla Tribune Udisa Islam, Senior Lecturer in Bangla at ULAB Sharmin Ur Nahar, and Project Manager at Nagorik Udyog Nadira Parvin, among others, spoke at the event. They collectively stressed the importance of inclusive education, advocating for the integration of freedom of expression and civic responsibility into school curricula.

VOICE Executive Director Ahmed Swapan Mahmud said: “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.”

Promiti Prova Chowdhury, Project Manager at VOICE, presented striking cases of digital civic space (DCS) violations and gender disinformation from the recent past. 

She said: “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.”

Speakers pointed out that certain groups are attempting to amplify existing societal divides, making it crucial to incorporate teachings of inclusivity and the "Do No Harm" approach within the education system.

Participants also called for school-based awareness programmes to promote respect for marginalised communities, combat gender disinformation, and create safer digital and civic spaces for all.