The Internet has become one of the most powerful tools of our time. It connects people across borders, opens up new opportunities, and has transformed how we work, learn, and communicate. Yet, when it comes to the leadership spaces where decisions about the Internet are made—whether at international conferences, policymaking bodies, or technical committees—women are still underrepresented.
The Internet is built and shaped by people, but too often those shaping it don’t reflect the diversity of its users. Women are essential contributors to every aspect of digital life, from online entrepreneurship to activism and community-building. However, when it comes to Internet governance, they continue to be left out of the rooms where the big decisions are made.
Why Women’s Participation in Internet Governance Matters
1. Fair Representation
Women make up nearly half of the world’s population and are active users of the Internet across the globe. They engage in social, economic, and political activities online, yet their perspectives are often missing when rules and policies are developed. This leads to digital frameworks that don’t fully take women’s needs and experiences into account.
2. Addressing Online Harassment and Safety
One of the most pressing challenges women face online is harassment and violence. Women and girls are more likely to face cyberbullying, stalking, and threats. Without women helping shape Internet policies, these serious concerns risk being ignored or poorly handled. Women need to be at the table to ensure that online spaces are safer and more respectful for all.
3. Driving Social and Economic Growth
When women are part of leadership, communities and economies thrive. The same applies in the digital world. Women bring valuable ideas and viewpoints that can lead to more balanced and effective decision-making. Their participation helps create fairer access to digital tools and opportunities, especially for other women and girls in marginalized communities.
4. Building Inclusive Digital Policies
Internet governance is about setting the rules that define how the online world operates. Without the input of women, policies risk being one-sided and lacking inclusiveness. Women’s lived experiences are key to understanding the social impact of digital policies, from data privacy to online freedoms.
Obstacles Women Face in Internet Governance
Despite the importance of their voices, women still encounter several obstacles in accessing Internet governance spaces:
- Cultural norms and gender biases that discourage women from participating in leadership roles, especially in technology and policy fields.
- Limited access to professional networks, which are essential for career growth and influence in Internet governance circles.
- Financial constraints that prevent women from attending international meetings and conferences where decisions are being made.
- Lack of visibility of women role models within the Internet governance community.
Solutions: How We Can Bridge the Gender Gap
1. Prioritize Gender Equality in Digital Decision-Making
Governments, organizations, and institutions involved in Internet governance need to actively include women in leadership and decision-making roles. Gender balance should be a priority, not an afterthought, in all digital policymaking processes.
2. Create Opportunities for Training and Mentorship
Women need access to programs that build their confidence, leadership skills, and technical knowledge. Mentorship programs can connect women with experienced leaders in Internet governance, helping them navigate these spaces and grow professionally.
3. Encourage Multi-Stakeholder Participation
Internet governance involves governments, civil society, businesses, and technical experts. All these groups must ensure that women are represented equally. Some spaces may benefit from setting gender balance targets to speed up progress.
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4. Offer Financial Support for Women’s Participation
Lack of funding is a major barrier, especially for women from developing countries. Providing scholarships, grants, and sponsorships can make it easier for more women to attend meetings, participate in working groups, and contribute meaningfully to discussions.
5. Highlight Success Stories
Promoting the achievements of women who are already leading in Internet governance is essential. Sharing their journeys can inspire younger women and girls to pursue roles in this field and show that leadership in digital policy is not out of reach.
6. Strengthen Protections Against Online Violence
Online harassment holds many women back from fully participating in digital spaces. Governments and platforms must take stronger action to stop online violence, including better reporting systems and tougher penalties for offenders.
7. Private Sector Responsibility
Tech companies and Internet service providers also have a role to play. They can set an example by promoting more women to leadership roles and supporting women-led projects within the technology and Internet governance space.
Conclusion
The Internet is a shared space, yet it cannot be truly fair or effective unless women have an equal voice in shaping it. Women bring different perspectives and ideas that are critical to building digital policies that work for everyone.
Closing the gender gap in Internet governance is not just about equality—it’s about creating a safer, more inclusive, and more innovative digital world. It is time to break the barriers and make sure women’s voices are heard where it matters most.
