A new study by UN Women and partners reveals that reports of online violence against women journalists have doubled since 2020, with severe impacts on their health and well-being. Released ahead of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, the report highlights how online violence targeting women in public life is becoming more technologically sophisticated, invasive, and damaging in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).
AI Exacerbates the Problem
“AI is making abuse easier and more damaging, and this is fueling the erosion of hard-won rights in a context marked by democratic backsliding and networked misogyny,” said Kalliopi Mingerou, who leads the agency’s team working to end violence against women. The report, titled Online violence impacts, manifestations and redress in the AI age, is based on a 2025 survey of 641 participants from 119 countries.
Key Findings
- 12 per cent of women human rights defenders, activists, journalists, and other media workers have experienced non-consensual sharing of personal images, including intimate or sexual content.
- 6 per cent have been victims of “deepfakes” – AI-generated images that appear real.
- One in three have received unsolicited sexual advances online.
- 41 per cent of respondents said they self-censor on social media to avoid abuse.
- 19 per cent self-censor in their professional work for the same reason.
The study underscores the growing threat of AI-powered abuse, which amplifies existing gender inequalities and undermines women's participation in public life. The findings call for urgent action to address online violence and protect women journalists and activists.
