UAE Unveils Groundbreaking Global SAFE-T Initiative to Combat Digital Abuse Against Women

The UAE has officially launched a major global initiative aimed at tackling acts of violence against women perpetrated through digital media, information, and communication technologies. Unveiled during the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, the SAFE-T Initiative seeks to combine robust legislation, digital literacy, and enhanced international co-operation.

Announced under the patronage of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), the programme is being brought to life through a collaborative partnership involving the GWU, the Ministry of Justice, and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime.

Addressing the growing challenge, Sheikha Fatima noted that technology-facilitated violence against women and girls extends far beyond individual harm, ultimately impacting broader social and economic participation. She warned that threats, abuse, blackmail, and defamation via digital channels severely restrict women's freedom of expression and their ability to engage fully in public life. Consequently, she issued a call for an integrated response uniting governments, international organisations, technology companies, and civil society.

“We do not view women merely as beneficiaries of digital transformation, but as partners in leading it and shaping its future,” Sheikha Fatima stated. She also pointed to the Cyber Pulse Initiative for Women and Family—launched by the GWU in co-operation with the UAE Cyber Security Council—as a successful national model that has since evolved into the international Cyber Pulse Academy for Women and Family.

Focusing on narrowing the digital divide, the SAFE-T blueprint begins by establishing basic digital infrastructure. This foundational phase relies on a digital safety toolkit, a Global Coalition for Digital Safety, and the UN Women Strategy on Technology-Facilitated Violence Against Women and Girls. At the heart of the plan is the Upstander model, which carefully co-ordinates nine linked strategies, including bridging the digital divide, empowering law enforcement, holding the tech sector accountable, and standardising data collection methods.

Noura Al Suwaidi, secretary general of the GWU, emphasized the organisation's firm commitment to safeguarding women's digital rights through technology. “At the General Women’s Union, we believe that protecting the security and sustainability of the family and society requires joint action and genuine integration among local and international stakeholders,” she said. “Through our continued co-operation with partners and organisations, we seek to establish a safe and equitable digital environment in which every woman and girl can contribute effectively and confidently to sustainable development and human progress.”