AI Technologies Facilitated Gender Based Violence (GBV) against Females: A Review

DOI- https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.24196915

Abstract

     A wide range of emerging issues are increasingly affecting the health and well-being of women, with gender-based violence (GBV) persisting throughout their lifetimes. This form of violence is associated with an increased risk of injuries, anxiety, disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts and other mental health challenges. At the same time, AI technologies have also contributed to the spread of misinformation and disinformation campaigns leading to physical, sexual, psychological, social, political or economical harm to women’s rights and freedoms. Technology facilitated GBV targets all women who use technology. For example, approximately 73% of women journalists have experienced online violence in the course of their work. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened digital violence as women increasingly moved online for work, school and social interactions. Today, the impact of AI on violence against females represents one of the most significant gender equality challenges of the digital age. Violence against females is one of the most widespread human rights violations in the world, affecting one in three women. This includes image based abuse, sextoration, blackmailing, cyperstalking and doxing. The unconsensual sharing of intimate media such as AI- generated deepfake images, is rapidly increasing on digital platforms. Generative AI tools can easily create ultra-realistic, unconsented fake intimate images and videos. Perp or offender use digital recordings or stolen personal details to blackmail victims, often taking abuse offline. The publication of private information online or constant digital harassment can force victims into distress. Image-based abuse is one of the most alarming forms of AI- driven harm. This study addresses the issue and focuses on eliminating such forms of violence. It requires more than just responding to violence after it occurs; it demands proactive and innovative solutions. The focus is on prevention strategies used by international organizations, legal frameworks addressing digital abuse and key solutions that involve investment and empowering women’s rights to break the silence around AI- generated gender based violence. Women have the knowledge, tools and determination to reshape societies to be safer, more inclusive and more just. To effectively implement prevention laws and policies against GBV, government ministries and the police need proper training and a mindset shift. Civil society organizations can play a crucial role in driving these changes and connecting communities with formal mechanisms.

Keywords:- AI- facilitated, Gender-Based Violence women and girls, mental health challenges, Legal Frameworks