Side event organized by the International Development Law Organization (IDLO) and the Embassies of Australia, the Philippines and the United Kingdom to the Netherlands, in partnership with the Hague Municipality and the International Gender Champions.
Wednesday, 18 November 2026
9:00-11:00 (UTC+08:00)
IDLO, The Hague, 3rd Floor Conference Room and online
The digital transformation of our daily realities is giving rise to new forms of online violence against women and girls (VAWG). Although the pattern and forms of online violence are unique, they are part of a continuum of violence and discrimination experienced offline, reinforcing systemic inequalities against women and girls.
Globally, law and policymakers continue to struggle to comprehensively address online VAWG, leaving significant gaps in legal frameworks for survivors to seek protection or access justice. Even when laws are in place, law enforcement personnel or judiciaries often lack the skills and knowledge, or technical expertise to effectively prevent, respond or adjudicate.
This event will bring together policymakers, experts, private sector and civil society to explore the key legal and justice challenges in preventing and responding to online violence.
Furthermore, panelists will discuss current and future initiatives aimed at eliminating online VAWG, in line with the UN 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence Campaign, starting on 25 November 2026.
The event will be online and in person.
Welcome Remarks:
- Fabricio Guariglia, Director, The Hague Office, IDLO
Special Remarks:
- Hon Ellie Reeves, Attorney General, United Kingdom
Opening Remarks:
- H.E. J. Eduardo Malaya, Ambassador of the Philippines to the Netherlands
Panel discussion:
- Fridah Githuku, Head of Women’s Rights, IMS Foundation
- Catherine Van De Heyning, Professor of European fundamental rights law at the University of Antwerp and Deputy Public Prosecutor in Antwerp's cybercrime division
- Mariam Torosyan, CEO, Safe YOU
Closing Remarks
- Peter Kievoet, Director of International Affairs, The Hague Municipality
Moderator
- Shiro Mogeni, Programme Manager, IDLO