What's Happening?
UN Women has issued a Call for Proposals under its SAFE project, seeking a qualified feminist or women’s rights civil society organization to enhance community-led advocacy and create safer digital spaces for women and girls in West Africa. The selected
organization will provide technical assistance, feminist mentorship, safeguarding support, and moderation guidance to youth-led digital initiatives and influencers. This initiative aims to combat gender-based violence, online harassment, technology-facilitated abuse, and harmful social norms affecting women and girls in the region. The project recognizes the dual nature of online platforms, offering opportunities for advocacy while also exposing women and girls to various forms of abuse. The primary implementation countries for this project are Senegal, Nigeria, and Ghana, with a broader regional mandate.
Why It's Important?
This call for proposals is crucial for addressing the escalating challenges of gender-based violence and digital abuse in West Africa. Online platforms, while vital for communication and activism, have become arenas for harassment and discrimination against women and girls. The SAFE project's focus on strengthening the capacity of feminist organizations to support youth-led digital initiatives is vital for fostering a new generation of advocates who are equipped to navigate and transform these digital spaces safely. By connecting community-led advocacy with practical digital safety measures, the project aims to create more inclusive and secure online environments, thereby empowering women and girls to participate fully in public life without fear of violence or intimidation. This initiative also seeks to generate regional evidence and develop adaptable prevention models.
What's Next?
Organizations interested in this opportunity must submit their proposals by October 21, 2026. The selected organization will then begin implementing activities under Output 1.3 of the SAFE project, focusing on strengthening youth-led digital advocacy, promoting safer online spaces, addressing technology-facilitated gender-based violence, challenging harmful social norms, and providing feminist mentorship and technical support. The project also aims to improve community accountability and facilitate regional learning, with a focus on developing prevention models and advocacy approaches that can be adapted across West African borders. The initiative is expected to contribute to more coordinated efforts to prevent gender-based violence throughout the region.
Beyond the Headlines
The SAFE project's emphasis on survivor-centered moderation systems and the promotion of positive identity models for young men highlights a comprehensive approach to combating gender-based violence. By involving youth creators and influencers, the project aims to challenge harmful ideas about masculinity and encourage respectful behavior, addressing root causes of violence. The recognition of emerging risks like AI-generated deepfakes underscores the evolving nature of digital threats and the need for innovative, adaptive strategies. This initiative goes beyond immediate intervention, seeking to build resilient digital communities and foster long-term cultural shifts towards gender equality and safety, ensuring that digital advancements do not inadvertently exacerbate existing inequalities or create new vulnerabilities for women and girls.
