DigiALL- INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY FOR

GENDER EQUALITY
The theme for International Women’s Day , 2023 rightly prioritizes the
innovation and technological change and education in digital age and
for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and
girls
In today’s world, technology is changing at a rapid pace and has the
potential to revolutionize our lives. With the advent of digital
technologies, the world is becoming more connected and information is
more accessible than ever before. However , despite the advances in
technology , gender equality remains a significant issue in many
societies worldwide. It is vital to recognize the role that digital
innovation can play in promoting gender equality.
The term DigiALL refers to the use of digital technologies to promote
gender equality. Gender Equality meaning that women and men , girls
and boys enjoy the same rights , resources , opportunities and
protections, a definition by UNICEF.
Well, gender equality isn’t a new topic of discussion when it comes to
Gen Z. Studies in India have proven a significantly higher rate of women
falling victims to acts of sexual violence than men, both in the real
world and the digital world too. And the biggest problem concerning
the issue is that most of them go unreported.
The three main factors being – doubts in law enforcement, victim
blaming, third- sexual violence still being a taboo subject. Generally in
discussions of sexual violence , victims are put more fault than their
perpetrators. Sexual violence cases for men are dealt even more
unhealthily. Most of the Indian society deem men as “ not able to being
raped” , told to “ toughen up” and “be a man”.
Where digital media has become a platform for trollers and hackers. In
actual it can be a very good platform to promote gender equality and
embrace equity if wisely used. This can include online platforms and
digital tools, from supporting women entrepreneurs to creating a safe
space for them
One of the most significant advantages of DigiALL is its potential to
reach to a broader audience. With online platforms and digital tools, it
is possible to connect with people from all over the world. This can be
especially beneficial for women in developing countries, where access
to information and opportunities may be limited.
Another advantage is its ability to promote gender diversity in the
workplace. Online training courses can be used to educate employees
about gender issues. Digital innovation can also help to create a safe
space for women in digital spaces. Social media platforms can
implement policies to protect users from online harassment, and tools
can be developed to identify and remove abusive content.
Finally, digiAll can be used to promote women's entrepreneurship.
Many women face barriers to starting their own businesses so digital
tools can be used to overcome these barriers by making online
marketplaces , attract mentors and investors.
India also has launched several initiatives to promote gender equality in
the technology sector. One such initiative is the Digital India program,
which aims to connect rural areas with the internet and promote digital
literacy.
Its high time to see the world not only with a feminist approach but with
a humanist approach , where every person of the community is treated
equal. No doubt, the online space has become toxic , breeding ways to
exploitation and violence but as we say its never too late , with the right
approach and effective policies we still can make it a hospitable place to
initiate , interact and innovate.
~Priya