UNDEF Partner Unveils Draft Law to Tackle Digital Violence Against Women and Girls
A crucial step toward ensuring online safety and gender equality in Albania has been marked by the unveiling of a draft law addressing digital violence against women and girls. The initiative, led by the Counseling Line for Women and Girls (CLWG), was developed through extensive consultations with various stakeholders and was showcased at a high-profile event in May 2024. This gathering brought together decision-makers, advocates, and community members to emphasize the draft law's potential to transform the digital landscape and protect women and girls from online violence.
The draft law was shaped by integrating insights from national laws and international frameworks, such as the Istanbul Convention. CLWG worked closely with national experts and government ministries to refine the legislation, engaging with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, and other key institutions. The draft introduces new regulatory measures, requiring online media platforms to register as media entities overseen by the Albanian Media Authority, which aims to establish a list of safe platforms that ensure user protection and responsible content moderation.
Support from Members of Parliament has been instrumental in advancing the legislation. Their commitment to championing the bill fosters stakeholder engagement and collaboration, reinforcing the need for a strong legal framework to combat digital violence. Through these collective efforts, CLWG is making significant strides toward creating a safer and more equitable digital environment for all.
