As part of the PNG-Australia Partnership, Papua New Guinea’s leading businesswomen recently participated in a Social Media Self Defence training delivered by Australia’s eSafety Commission. The program addressed the growing concern of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), which is deeply linked to persistent sexist and discriminatory attitudes against women.
The training emphasized three key messages: online abuse is unacceptable and should never be normalized; the importance of self-care in protecting mental health while maintaining public presence; and the power of being an active upstander to support victims safely.
This initiative reflects a critical step in safeguarding women’s participation in public and digital spaces in PNG, enhancing their resilience against abuse, and promoting gender equality in emerging digital economies.
Resources and support for online safety are available through Australia’s eSafety website, while local assistance can be accessed via Tok Kaunselin Helpim Lain on 7150 8000, ensuring victims of violence and abuse have pathways to help.