Engaging men, ending violence: Pathways to safer digital futures

This report examines the growing threat of technology-facilitated violence against women and girls through a focused look at male perpetration, online misogyny, and the digital environments that enable harm. It responds to a critical gap in existing research by asking not only how violence is experienced, but also why harmful attitudes and behaviours are taking root among some men and boys in online spaces.

Drawing on a desk review of recent research and key informant interviews, the publication explores how rigid gender norms, economic insecurity, social isolation, and online subcultures such as the manosphere can contribute to the normalization of abuse. It shows how digital violence does not remain online, but often spills into offline intimidation, exclusion, and real-world harm, especially for women in public life and those facing intersecting forms of discrimination.

The report also looks at what can be done. It highlights the need for stronger definitions, measurement tools, legal and policy frameworks, and more accountable platform governance. Just as importantly, it makes the case for engaging men and boys as part of prevention efforts—not only as potential perpetrators, but also as bystanders, allies, and individuals shaped by harmful gender expectations. By combining evidence on perpetration, prevention, and digital culture, the publication offers practical direction for building safer, more equitable digital spaces, and advancing gender justice online and offline.