Understanding online violence against women in Bangladesh: Sociocultural drivers, legal awareness, and institutional responses

Abstract The rapid advancement of digital technology and widespread internet access in Bangladesh have created new opportunities for communication, education, and engagement, particularly for women. However, these developments have also led to new forms of crime, including digital gender-based violence. This study examines the perceived prevalence, sociocultural dimensions, and legal aspects of online violence against young digitally active women in Bangladesh. Using a quantitative research design supported by qualitative findings, the study found that online violence against women is perceived to be highly prevalent among internet users in Bangladesh. Many participants reported that they experienced multiple forms of abuse, including harassment, impersonation, hate speech, stalking, sextortion, and doxing. The findings further showed that harassment is not limited to anonymous online offenders, as perpetrators were also perceived to include acquaintances, friends, and intimate partners, reflecting offline power dynamics in digital spaces. Participants also reported serious psychological effects, including anxiety and emotional distress. Despite existing legal frameworks, respondents expressed limited confidence in institutional responses. Fear of social stigmatisation, lack of awareness of legal remedies, and mistrust of enforcement mechanisms were identified as major barriers to reporting. The study concludes that online violence against women may be reduced through stronger legal enforcement, improved reporting systems, greater public awareness, and gender-sensitive institutional support, helping to create a safer online environment for women.