Law Professor Unveils Groundbreaking Guidelines on Digital Violence Against Women

In a significant step towards combating online and digital violence against women, Professor Kim Barker delivered a keynote address to an invited audience of lawmakers, policy professionals, judges, advocates, law enforcement officials, and prosecutors in Sarajevo (Bosnia & Herzegovina) in late November 2024 to mark the 16 Days of Activism to end Violence Against Women & Girls. The event marked the launch of the first comprehensive guidelines for investigating and prosecuting such crimes, authored by Prof Barker in collaboration with the Council of Europe. The Guidelines are available online here: https://rm.coe.int/study-on-dvaw-website-version-final-2768-3399-0410-v-1/1680b1ef4d.

Prof Barker’s keynote address highlighted the urgent need for robust legal frameworks and coordinated efforts to address the growing issue of digital violence against women, and its technology facilitated forms. Prof Barker emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach to investigations, and in providing clear, actionable steps for law enforcement and judicial bodies to effectively tackle online abuse and protect victims.

The newly launched guidelines are expected to serve as a critical resource for professionals across Europe, offering practical advice and best practices for handling cases of online and digital violence against women. The initiative underscores the commitment of both Prof Barker and the Council of Europe to advancing gender equality and ensuring justice for victims of digital violence. Prof Barker’s address was met with acclaim and interest from the audience, who recognized the significance of this pioneering work in shaping future policies and legal responses to digital and technology facilitated violence against women.

Story submitted by Kim Barker
kbarker@lincoln.ac.uk