Female representation in the decision-making processes related to the internet is crucial for addressing the digital divide in Bangladesh, experts said.
They made the comment at a session of the third edition of Bangladesh Youth Internet Governance Forum 2023 at the CIRDAP auditorium in Dhaka, read a press release issued on Tuesday.
"Women are still underrepresented in internet governance. Women's participation in internet governance can help to address the digital divide," said Farha Mahmud Trina, secretary-general at the Bangladesh Women Internet Governance Forum, while presenting a paper titled "Role of women internet governance forum for achieving SDGS 5."
"By increasing women's participation in internet governance, we can help close the digital divide and ensure that everyone has access to the benefits of the internet."
The internet can be a powerful tool for women's empowerment, she said adding that it can provide women with access to information, education, and employment opportunities and also help women connect with each other and build networks of support.
“Although women are victims of violence on the internet, there is no alternative to connectivity for women,” said Amrita Choudhury, vice chair for Asia Pacific at the Internet Governance Forum.
She warned that algorithms of artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT could also be used for violence against women.
The three-day Youth IGF ended with a total of eight sessions and workshops.
