Misogynistic networks: Study reveals digital violence on the Internet!

Misogynistic networks: Study reveals digital violence on the Internet!

The final event of the series “Gender Issues?” will take place on February 26, 2025 at 6 p.m. took place, organized by the Cluster of Excellence “Contestations of the Liberal Script” (SCRIPTS) at the Free University of Berlin in collaboration with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. The focus is on the presentation of the pilot study “Mapping the GerManosphere”, which closely examines misogynistic groups and networks on the German-speaking Internet. This study reveals the influences of such groups on digital society and their impact on those affected. Admission to the event is free, registration was possible until February 25, 2025, and the results will be presented by Prof. Dr. Gülay Çağlar, an expert in political science with a focus on gender and diversity.

The study brings to light a growing network of misogynistic groups that are directed not only against feminism, but also against the liberal social order. These groups include “Incels,” “Pick-Up Artists,” and “Men’s Rights Activists,” among others. These movements invent solutions for so-called masculinity crises, which are often accompanied by violent fantasies. As part of the event, experts such as Marina Hackenbroch and Peggy Staffa will discuss violence against women on the Internet and possible countermeasures.

Background to digital violence

The problem of violence against women on the Internet is by no means new. The bff reports a continuous increase in requests for advice on gender-specific digital violence in recent years. The challenges range from doxxing and stalking to hate speech and online harassment. This form of violence has increased, particularly through information and communication technologies, both in public spaces and within private relationships. The bff, together with Nivedita Prasad, has published a comprehensive basic work on this topic, which includes interdisciplinary analyzes and discussions about legal and technical interventions.

There is a clear trend in German online spaces: more and more misogynistic ideologies are being propagated, and the effects on daily life are serious. These ideologies are not just of academic interest, but they also lead to real suffering and threats to many women. Those from Prof. Dr. The discussion led by Çağlar at the event aims to make these connections visible and to develop concrete options for action to counteract them.

Joint efforts against violence

The scientific examination of misogynistic violence online is an important step in combating this form of discrimination. The series of events is in the context of the transdisciplinary research project “Misogyny on the Internet”, which is being implemented in cooperation with the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD).

The need for policy changes and new options for action to combat violence against women is clear. Surveys and requests for advice demonstrate the urgency of this issue. The February event therefore represents not only an information forum, but also a call to action for society as a whole.