By Rita Bhowmick (Dhaka Bureau)
As technology rapidly expands in Bangladesh, there is a corresponding rise in digital violence and hate speech directed at women. To address this crisis and build a discrimination-free society, experts have called for filmmakers and women’s rights organizations to work hand-in-hand. They emphasized the importance of using online platforms as powerful tools to deliver messages of women’s rights to the younger generation.
A consultation meeting titled ‘Combating Increasing Hate Speech and Violence Against Women on Digital Platforms’ was held on Sunday (June 07) at 4:30 PM at the central office of the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad. Chaired by the organization’s President, Dr. Fauzia Moslem, the meeting brought together renowned filmmakers, documentary makers, and women’s rights activists.
Male-Dominated Film Industry and Current Reality: Speakers noted with regret that while women’s mobility was relatively free in the 1990s, it has become restricted in the current social climate. The film industry remains largely male-dominated. Filmmakers observed a lack of awareness in portraying women on screen, noting a disconnect in depicting the authentic life struggles of women.
* Cyber Violence and Lack of ‘Comment Sense’: Deep concern was expressed over the rising trend of both men and women becoming ‘social media abusers.’ The meeting stressed the need to develop ‘comment sense’ to tackle trolling and negative remarks on digital platforms.
* Legal Action and Social Impact: Participants pointed out that legal action is often only seen after an incident of abuse goes ‘viral,’ which is not a sign of a healthy society. They proposed ensuring strict punishment for cyber violence and broadcasting awareness-based content at the district level.
In recent times, killings and hatred towards women have increased in society. We must establish our life’s goals and aspirations on social media and prioritize using these to foster a positive attitude towards women’- Dr. Fauzia Moslem, President, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad.
* Maleka Banu (General Secretary, Mahila Parishad): She remarked that society seems to be moving backward. Utilize the creativity of filmmakers to build a humane society is the need of the hour.
* Rekha Saha (Legal Aid Secretary): Criticizing the negative portrayal of women in the current education curriculum and entertainment world, she said, ‘Women are not just oppressed; they are advancing by overcoming all obstacles. It is vital to promote this positive image.’
* Seema Moslem (Joint General Secretary): She spoke about collaborating with technology experts to advance the women’s movement by leveraging the fast-paced influence of technology.
Filmmakers Shamim Akhter, Mehzad Galib, and Shabnam Ferdousi, among others, emphasized maintaining gender sensitivity during scriptwriting and conducting rigorous reviews after a film is produced. They noted that the journey for female filmmakers is fraught with obstacles, but through united efforts, it is possible to raise awareness among audiences even at the grassroots level.
The meeting was moderated by Dil Afroz Begum and attended by approximately 60 representatives, including leaders and officials of the Bangladesh Mahila Parishad. The central theme of the discussion was clear: to stop violence against women, legal measures alone are not enough; positive changes in mindset must be fostered through cinema and digital content.
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The Writer:
Rita Bhowmick: Senior Journalist and Staff Correspondent, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.
