On Safer Internet Day, former Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya shared her traumatic experience involving the non-consensual distribution of a private video, a personal violation that led to her removal from cabinet and a broader public discussion on digital safety. During her address in Suva, she emphasized the pain of having a private moment exposed without her consent, stating that the perpetrator’s intent was to humiliate and damage her reputation, impacting her professional life and standing in her political party.
Tabuya asserted the crucial distinction between freedom of expression and the violation of privacy, emphasizing that the unauthorized sharing of intimate content is not just a moral issue, but a legal one. She called for greater awareness about consent in the digital age, highlighting that laws against such violations are clear and objective, irrespective of public opinion.
Filipe Batiwale, Commissioner of the Online Safety Commission, echoed these sentiments, announcing plans to enhance measures against cyberbullying. He highlighted the need for a culture of respect and responsibility online, and the commission’s commitment to educating Fijians, including parents and community leaders, on maintaining digital safety.
The growing concerns of cybercrime and bullying in Fiji have prompted collaborations with the Fiji Police Force Cyber Crime Unit and other authorities to ensure that those who engage in such actions are held accountable.
This year’s Safer Internet Day serves as a reminder of the critical importance of personal safety and dignity in the digital world, and it is hoped that ongoing efforts can lead to a safer online environment for everyone. By raising awareness and advocating for consent, there is a potential for positive change in the way individuals engage with technologies that impact their lives.
Leave a comment