Strengthening Employer Responses to Digital Gender Based Violence

The project “Strengthening Employer Responses to Digital GBV,” funded by the Commission on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence through the ‘Together We Empower – A Future without Violence’ programme, aims to combat the rising threat of digital gender-based violence, including deepfake abuse, in Malta’s labour market. Led by The Malta Chamber Foundation, it seeks to adopt a whole-of-society approach by involving employers, government, and civil society. Through dialogue, practical guidance, and awareness campaigns, the project aims to empower businesses to support employees affected by online violence, enhance workplace safety, and contribute to national efforts against online abuse, promoting a more inclusive and resilient professional environment.

Digital gender-based violence, including deepfake harassment, is rapidly increasing and disproportionately affects women, damaging professional lives, mental health, and participation in the workforce. Employers often lack clear procedures to address these issues, while legislation struggles to keep pace, leaving gaps in prevention, response, and victim support in workplaces.

Objectives 

• Strengthen employer capacity to address digital gender-based violence effectively
• Promote collaboration between business, government, and civil society stakeholders
• Develop practical workplace guidelines for employee protection
• Raise awareness of digital GBV impacts and employer responsibilities

The project will involve the following activities:

Stakeholder Engagement – A roundtable discussion bringing together employers, NGOs, and government to address digital GBV and deepfake legislation, fostering collaboration, shared understanding, and practical implementation strategies.

Employer Guidance Development – Development of practical guidelines to help employers to respond to digital GBV, integrating procedures into HR policies, workplace safety protocols, and employee support systems.

Awareness Session – An information session for employers and HR professionals to raise awareness of digital GBV impacts, legal responsibilities, and promote integration of anti-GBV messaging into corporate practices.