Victims of image-based abuse are being reassured by the Online Safety Commissioner, Filipe Batiwale, that they should not hesitate to come forward. In his recent statements, he emphasized the importance of providing support to victims of online abuse, including cases of revenge pornography. Batiwale highlighted that seeking help is not a crime and that the commission’s role extends far beyond just law enforcement.
The Online Safety Commission (OSC) offers a confidential platform for individuals to report incidents under the Online Safety Act 2018. Batiwale stressed, “We focus on supporting survivors rather than penalizing them,” urging victims to seek help without fear of repercussions. He outlined that all reports will be handled sensitively and with confidentiality, and victims will receive guidance on legal options, as well as access to counseling services as needed.
Mr. Batiwale’s comments align with an increasing awareness around the critical issue of image-based abuse, particularly as recent reports indicated a troubling rise in such incidents, especially among young people and women. The Commission has been actively collaborating with women’s rights groups and social service providers to ensure comprehensive support for survivors.
The OSC is also actively encouraging anyone who has experienced or witnessed online abuse to report it immediately in order to prevent further harm. By fostering a supportive environment and urging victims to come forward, there is hope for a more respectful and safer online community.
This proactive stance by the OSC suggests a growing recognition of the importance of online safety and individual rights, paving the way for a more secure digital landscape in Fiji. As public awareness grows, it is hoped that such initiatives will lead to a significant reduction in image-based abuse and a culture of respect in online interactions.
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