Have you ever received a message that made you uncomfortable, but told yourself “it’s just a joke”? These behaviours, often normalised, are forms of technology-facilitated gender-based violence. Shame, fear of judgement or the belief that “it’s no big deal” mean these acts are rarely reported, even though their consequences are very real.
This capsule details four signs to recognise: repeated sexist jokes or comments, which are a way of belittling and controlling; insistent messages even after a clear refusal, which amount to harassment and psychological pressure; private photos or messages shared without consent, a violation of privacy and a form of blackmail; and emotional pressure to push you into doing something you don’t want, which is manipulation, and therefore violence.
Studies show that many women in Benin have already experienced these situations, but that a large majority never report them. Yet this violence is never the victim’s fault. If this concerns you: keep the evidence, report the facts, ask specialised associations for help. Recognising it is already taking action.
