Recent research in the UK shows that online participation is impacted by online misogyny. Women are disproportionately affected, as they report more exposure. It can become an important factor in the decision to self-censor or even self-deplatform. New platform liability regulations (the UK Online Safety Act and the EU Digital Services Act) make platforms legally responsible for protecting their users from illegal and harmful content.  There is legitimate criticism that more can be done to combat online misogyny and sexism, a phenomenon that raises public concern and can erode efforts for gender equality. Ofcom issued guidance with a total of nine areas where the tech industry can do more to improve women and girls’ online experience and safety.   

In this talk I am going to analyse the legal framework to combat online misogyny and the recently published “guidance on safer life online for women and girls” from Ofcom.  Additionally, I will present the early findings of the “Gendernet”, a UKRI EPSRC-funded Horizon Digital Economy Research project, as part of a Welfare Campaign, that explores the impact of online misogyny on participation and wellbeing and the ways we tried to capture and bring awareness of women’s often silenced experiences, concerns and suggestions.   

Presentation online on Wednesday 10/12/2025, 11am to 12 noon GMT

Connection details:

Microsoft Teams Need help?

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 369 233 936 144 6

Passcode: fk7wq25D