The issue of gender-based violence against women committed online and facilitated by technology is a growing concern, highlighting the need for stronger legal protections, support systems, and awareness initiatives to effectively combat and prevent such forms of abuse. The Council of Europe addresses digital violence against women through the Istanbul Convention and the GREVIO General Recommendation No. 1 on the Digital dimension of violence against women, which provides guidance to states on how to combat technology-facilitated gender-based violence in accordance with the provisions of the Convention.
On 11 March 2025, partners in Armenia, including state agency representatives and civil society organisations, convened in Yerevan to discuss the key findings and recommendations from the report "Digital Dimension of Violence Against Women in Armenia". The report highlights various forms of digital violence, including cyberstalking, online harassment, and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. It identifies gaps in Armenia's legal and support systems and offers recommendations for legal reforms, institutional changes, and steps for capacity building and awareness-raising initiatives to better address violence against women and domestic violence.
A representative from the Police of Armenia, specialising in combating violence against women and domestic violence, stressed the importance of the study: “This study is essential for raising awareness of the gaps and challenges in combatting digital violence while also providing practical recommendations. There is still much work to be done, particularly in strengthening legislative frameworks and enhancing technical capacities which require coordinated and comprehensive inter-agency effort”, they noted.
Representatives from civil society organisations shared their challenges in supporting victims of domestic violence who also face digital abuse: "The support we can provide to victims is often limited because this issue is complicated and constantly evolving, and there are no clear guidelines or protection mechanisms in place. In some cases, victims reached out to law enforcement, but there are still limited possibilities for response. This study is an important step in identifying gaps and advocating for stronger legal and institutional measures to ensure better protection and prevention."
Following the presentation, participants engaged in a training session on the digital aspects of violence against women. They reviewed best practices, examined case studies, and identified key challenges. Participants also outlined actionable steps to effectively combat tech-facilitated violence against women in Armenia.
This event was organised as a part of the second phase of the Council of Europe implemented "Ending Violence Against Women and Promoting Gender Equality in Armenia" project, aiming to continue the support to Armenia’s efforts in combating violence against women and promoting gender equality.
