Projects implemented in 2024 with the support of these subgrants included the following:
- AlterMundi – Weaving Networks (WeNet): Technical training for local empowerment and development
- Arid Lands Information Network (ALIN) – ALINET: Enhancing connectivity through affordable client premises equipment
- Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) – Empowering women-headed CSOs for combating technology-facilitated gender-based violence
- Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) – Facilitating community-centred connectivity for an unconnected community in Nigeria
- Centre for Multilateral Affairs (CfMA) – Examining the governance frameworks and gender dimensions of artificial intelligence policy in Uganda
- Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) – Promoting multistakeholderism for inclusive digital policy making in East Africa
- Colnodo – Transformative environmental alert systems: Improving sensor design and community involvement
- Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) – Digital Citizen Summit and Community Network Xchange
- Escuela Latinoamericana de Redes (EsLaRed) – Social audit as a strategy for a transformative change in society through digital technologies, to determine the violation of access to public information in Venezuela
- Fantsuam Foundation – Replication of Hello Hub in Kafanchan, Nigeria
- Institute for Social Entrepreneurship in Asia (ISEA) – Developing a course on community innovations: Linking community-centred connectivity initiatives to social enterprise
- International Association of Women in Radio and Television-Kenya (IAWRT-K) – Exploring the extent of the use of various technologies by women in mainstream media
- Intervozes – Free Territories, Free Technologies
- Jinbonet – Research on AI policy and issues in key areas in South Korea
- Jokkolabs Banjul – Addressing misinformation in The Gambia: A project proposal and activities with a focus on theory of change
- LaLibre.net Tecnologías Comunitarias – Weaving the Network of Digital Rights Defenders in Ecuador 2024: Second national gathering
- May First Movement Technology – Cutting the cord: Understanding our dependence on surveillance capitalism
- Media Awareness and Justice Initiative (MAJI) – The Community-Centred Digital Access project (with WACC co-funding)
- Media Matters for Democracy (MMfD) – Enhancing media capacity for reporting on digital rights in Pakistan
- Myanmar Internet Project (MIP) – Mesh networking training
- Nodo TAU – “Weaving our history and our work... on the way to 30 years”
- Pangea – Improving your TECH use and agendas: More eco-friendly and sustainable?
- Point of View – Countering gendered disinformation in India
- PROTEGE QV – Rehabilitation and strengthening of Radio Flambeau in Banka (Cameroon) in preparation for the 2025 elections (with WACC co-funding)
- Rudi International – HakiConf 2024
- Servelots – Towards negotiating content from low-literate communities
- Sulá Batsú – Changing the game: Advocating for better gender practice in the IT industry
- TEDIC – Digital violence is real
- Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE) – Promoting Women's Equality and Rights (POWER) in Bangladesh
- Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) – Women in journalism and politics: Countering gendered disinformation in Uganda
- Zaina Foundation – Coalition and movement building in the fight against internet shutdowns in Tanzania during upcoming elections
AlterMundi – Weaving Networks (WeNet): Technical training for local empowerment and development
AlterMundi, in collaboration with the community of José de la Quintana, proposes to undertake an open and free training initiative, specifically aimed at women and young people from local families. In a context where technical education is limited and uprooting due to lack of opportunities is common, this project seeks to awaken the participants' interest in technological fields, strengthening their skills and technical knowledge so they can more confidently consider pursuing studies or employment in this area. The training will be conducted in real-world environments, using the infrastructure of the QuintanaLibre community network, which includes both Wi-Fi mesh and fibre optic networks already established in the locality. AlterMundi’s goal is to foster interest in technical and digital areas, with the hope that this initiative will promote the opening of a technological specialisation at the local high school, currently focused on mining. By empowering the community through technology, these efforts contribute to creating a more equitable and sustainable future, where young people and women can develop professionally without leaving their hometown. This project not only seeks to improve technical skills but also to lay the groundwork for growth that benefits the entire region, preserving local communities’ roots and enhancing their connections.
Arid Lands Information Network (ALIN) – ALINET: Enhancing connectivity through affordable client premises equipment
Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) – Empowering women-headed CSOs for combating technology-facilitated gender-based violence
Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) – Facilitating community-centred connectivity for an unconnected community in Nigeria
This project aims at supporting and enabling the activation of the agency of a community to address its connectivity challenges through the deployment of a Hello World-franchised digital hub, which provides Wi-Fi connectivity for the use of the community along with facilities for digital skills acquisition. In addition to direct procurement of relevant equipment, it includes capacity building for community mobilisation for support and raising local resources to augment what the grant could provide, training in technical and managerial skills for the deployment and management of the hub, as well as developing community-based sustainability strategies for the hub.
Centre for Multilateral Affairs (CfMA) – Examining the governance frameworks and gender dimensions of artificial intelligence policy in Uganda
There are limited protocols governing and guiding the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in Uganda. The bottlenecks to implementing and adopting responsible AI in Uganda are vast. The AI ecosystem is emerging and developing at an ever faster rate, while the institutional capacity within government ministries and departments is limited. The policy and governance framework on AI is still nascent, and not covered by specific guidelines and procedures for an AI-enabled digital economy. A lack of gender perspectives in the AI field is reflected through the gender gap in AI and cybersecurity policy discussions. Without strong institutional capacity and a framework on AI, it is difficult for the government to understand and determine what legislation and policies, including oversight and enforcement mechanisms, are required to strengthen the protection of human rights in a rapidly changing digital age. The Centre for Multilateral Affairs (CfMA) seeks to shape and unpack conversations around AI, and to fast track the enactment of policies and legislation to govern AI that are rights-respecting and that integrate gender dimensions of AI policy making. It further seeks to advocate for best ethical design, including advocacy for stated commitments by policy makers to combatting the gendered impacts of AI and cyber insecurities, as well as the application of practices that are consistent with human rights principles. This study seeks to examine the governance framework and gender dimensions of artificial intelligence policy and its impact on digital rights in Uganda. The specific objectives are to analyse the legal and regulatory frameworks governing AI in Uganda, identify and articulate the gender gap in AI policy making in Uganda, and propose strategies to integrate gender perspectives and human rights approaches in AI policy making.
Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) – Promoting multistakeholderism for inclusive digital policy making in East Africa
Digital trade and digital payments in Africa have experienced significant growth and transformation, driven by increased internet penetration, mobile phone usage, and innovative financial technologies. Mobile money services have revolutionised financial transactions in East Africa. At the continental level, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to further boost intra-African trade by reducing tariffs and simplifying trade regulations. At the regional level, while the One Network Area (ONA) adopted by the East African Community (EAC) eliminated mobile roaming charges, more efforts need to be made in harmonising digital trade and payments across borders. To this end, the EAC adopted the e-commerce strategy in July 2022 in an effort to contribute to enhancing capacities for growth, improve legal and regulatory frameworks and increase trust in digital trade. The strategy further aims to strengthen cross-sectoral and public-private collaboration in developing regional approaches to cross-border e-commerce, a key building block towards a regional single digital market. However, the full implementation and expansion of the ONA and the e-commerce strategy require support both for the EAC as well as member states. There is a need to foster strategic leadership as a guiding force steering businesses toward a future defined by secure transactions and digital trust. As such, the project seeks to equip policy makers, including legislators, with knowledge to design, draft and implement essential digital policies and regulations to promote a competitive, safe, inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. The capacity-building session will be held during the East Africa Internet Govenance Forum (EAIGF) 2024). The EAIGF provides an opportunity for policy makers and legislators to engage with other actors within the region to deliberate on key internet governance issues affecting the region.
Colnodo – Transformative environmental alert systems: Improving sensor design and community involvement
With the support of APC, Colnodo developed an environmental alert system linked to a geographic information system (GIS) that collects information on noise levels and air quality from environmental sensors in real time (see: https://www.colnodo.apc.org/es/impulsando-la-ciencia-ciudadana-y-la-mon…). Colnodo then participated in the “Transformative technologies for people and the planet” collective, an initiative supported by APC, to develop a water quality sensor that was also linked to the GIS. Colnodo got some of the community networks it is working with involved in the implementation of the sensors in their communities, which made it possible to gather important feedback to improve the design and reliability of the sensors so they can gather information in the field in a more reliable way. The sensors being used in the initiative, all developed by Colnodo, monitor air quality (particulate matter), water quality (pH, temperature, electrical conductivity) and noise levels.
Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF) – Digital Citizen Summit and Community Network Xchange
The grant will be used to organise two in-person events: the Digital Citizen Summit and Community Network Xchange. The Digital Citizen Summit is a platform that brings together different stakeholders for discussions and dialogues on digital rights and technology. In its sixth chapter, the event will promote discussions on examining algorithmic bias and decision making through its themes of Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence and Accountability. These discussions will take place through different sessions, lightning talks, exhibitions and networking spaces. For its part, the Community Network Xchange (CNX) is dedicated to uniting community network practitioners and enthusiasts of community-driven internet connectivity to foster the exchange of ideas and drive the grassroots connectivity movement forward. In its eighth edition, under the theme of “Building Communities for Rights to Access and Access to Rights”, CNX focuses on tackling the challenges of network deployment in rural and remote regions and the resulting exclusion from essential entitlements. By highlighting community-led and community-centred access solutions, CNX seeks to provide diverse stakeholders – including philanthropic organisations, government bodies, policy makers and grassroots groups – with valuable perspectives on various models and their practical applications. These events will be hosted on 15 and 16 November 2024 in Hyderabad.
Escuela Latinoamericana de Redes (EsLaRed) – Social audit as a strategy for a transformative change in society through digital technologies, to determine the violation of access to public information in Venezuela
In recent decades, Venezuela has been submerged in opacity in government management and a lack of transparency in accessing information. One of the main causes of the lack of transparency in information is the concentration of power and lack of institutionality, censorship and media control. This situation has serious consequences for society and promotes the violation of human rights; which generates uncertainty, encourages corruption and limits citizen control, among other impacts. Specifically, the opacity in accessing information spreads distrust and hinders decision making by citizens and the different actors in society. In this context, strengthening the institutions responsible for guaranteeing transparency and promoting citizen participation is an urgent need for the country, so that the conditions are created to guarantee the freedoms of citizens and defend human rights. In this sense, the purpose of the research proposal is to generate an instrument that facilitates the implementation of social audits where citizens and communities, through digital mechanisms and technologies, can actively participate to defend human rights, specifically the right to access to public information. In this way, it is possible to address and evaluate whether public policies and government actions are being carried out in a transparent and efficient manner and for the benefit of the community. In essence, the aim is to identify the digital mechanisms and technologies that allow citizens to conduct an exhaustive examination of how human rights are being fulfilled in matters related to transparency to access information on matters of collective interest in Venezuela, and thus, determine evidence of violations that are useful for potential complaints in national and international bodies.
Fantsuam Foundation – Replication of Hello Hub in Kafanchan, Nigeria
Community-centred connectivity initiatives such as community networks provide a cost-effective strategy to promote internet access, democratically empowering communities to own, maintain and manage their own communication infrastructure. There are four components that make for a successful community network: 1) a critical mass of users, 2) technical support, 3) readily available and affordable connectivity, and 4) a reliable source of power. In Nigeria, the national power grid does not cover most rural and poorly connected communities. In its efforts to develop a critical mass of users, Fantsuam Foundation has been building digital literacy capacity for different interest groups in its host rural communities: community leaders, women farmers and small-scale traders, school teachers and young people. This project proposal builds on these ongoing efforts and addresses the issue of technical support and renewable energy to power community networks through the replication of the Hello Hub initiative.
Institute for Social Entrepreneurship in Asia (ISEA) – Developing a course on community innovations: Linking community-centred connectivity initiatives to social enterprise
The Institute for Social Entrepreneurship in Asia (ISEA) is currently engaged with three projects related to community-centred connectivity. These are the Community Network Mapping in Asia and the Pacific initiative (with APC), the Comparative Study of the Financial Sustainability and Socioeconomic Impacts of Alternative Digital Infrastructure (also with APC), and the Model Building of Community Networks linked to Social Enterprise and Local Economic Development (with APNIC Foundation as part of ISIF 2022). This proposal focuses on the development and publication of learning materials with a course design and pilot delivery of a 20-minute session, a three-hour session and a one-day Introductory Course on Community-Centred Connectivity Initiatives (CCCIs) and Social Entrepreneurship. The outputs from the three projects listed above will be the sources and references in developing the learning materials and knowledge products that promote CCCIs as a segment of social enterprise and their role in bridging the digital divide and promoting sustainable development. ISEA will organise learning events, face-to-face, online and/or hybrid, to share these to a wide audience, including practitioners, policy makers, academics and students interested in social entrepreneurship and digital inclusion. This project is linked to strengthening ISEA in defining a framework and requirements towards building its in-house capability to undertake social enterprise case research and publications. It further strengthens ISEA’s position as a leader in CCCIs in the Asia-Pacific region and its ongoing efforts around developing knowledge resources, capacity building and platform strengthening, especially the Technological Innovations for Sustainable Development Platform.
International Association of Women in Radio and Television-Kenya (IAWRT-K) – Exploring the extent of the use of various technologies by women in mainstream media
The media industry in Kenya, like in many other parts of the world, is undergoing a rapid transformation driven by the adoption of new technologies. These technologies have not only reshaped the way content is created, distributed and consumed, but have also influenced the roles and opportunities available to women in the media sector. The integration of digital tools, social media platforms, artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics has become essential in mainstream media operations. However, the extent to which women in Kenyan mainstream media have embraced and are utilising these technologies remains under explored. This research is significant as it will provide insights into the technological landscape within the Kenyan media industry from a gender perspective. The findings will inform policy makers, media organisations and educational institutions on the necessary interventions to support women in harnessing the full potential of technology in media. By addressing the gender gap in technology use, the study aims to contribute to the broader goal of gender equality in the media industry.
Intervozes – Free Territories, Free Technologies
Since 2020, the Free Territories, Free Technologies (in Portuguese, Territórios Livres, Tecnologias Livres – TLTL) project, developed by Intervozes, has promoted the right to communication, internet access and technology in rural communities and for traditional peoples and communities in Northeastern Brazil. In 2023, TLTL inaugurated a new stage that consisted of starting a territorial caravan on internet access and socio-environmental justice, strengthening local advocacy capacities and producing narratives for access to free, open and safe internet, respecting the autonomy of communities, combating racism and, above all, promoting gender equality. In 2023, the project focused on the communities of Sumidouro in the state of Piauí and Assentamento Vitória da União in the state of Sergipe. In 2024, the project will continue these actions in the community of Bela Vista, in the municipality of Igreja Nova in Alagoas state, with a focus on bodily care and the exposure of women through networks, seeking to start a process of debate on a plan for the creation of an internet structure led by quilombola and rural women. This project will be built with the aim of strengthening, above all, the technological autonomy of these women and protecting their community against human and environmental rights violations, especially gender-based violence and environmental racism. Through workshops, consultancy, dialogues with the community and an exchange with other communities such as Assentamento Vitória da União and the Women Rural Workers Movement of Sergipe, the project aims to promote social and environmental justice, in addition to promoting the conscious use of the internet in the struggles for gender equity and socio-environmental rights in the territory of Bela Vista.
Jinbonet – Research on AI policy and issues in key areas in South Korea
As international awareness of the risks of AI grows, countries around the world are discussing ways to control them, and some have already introduced AI regulations. Examples include the AI Safety Summit in the UK in November 2023, the AI Seoul Summit in May 2024, the adoption of an AI resolution by the UN General Assembly in March 2024, the AI Executive Order in the US in October 2023, and the passage of the EU AI Act in May 2024. In South Korea, an AI bill was scrapped in the 21st National Assembly, but is expected to be reintroduced in the 22nd National Assembly. Civil society in South Korea is advocating for a strong AI law to ensure that the risks of AI are properly controlled. This is because AI systems are already being deployed in various sectors, including the public sphere, but there is no legislation to control them and remedy damages. The project consists of two core activities. First, publication of a research report that identifies the current state of AI system adoption and challenges in key sectors such as public institutions, education, social welfare and criminal justice. Second, hosting an AI civil society forum for civil society activists from various sectors. This project is an important attempt to comprehensively analyse the adoption and impact of AI technologies in Korean society, and to find solutions together with civil society. Through this project, we will be able to identify the readiness of various sectors of Korean society to adopt AI. These findings and recommendations will serve as an important reference for the upcoming AI bill to be debated in the National Assembly.
Jokkolabs Banjul – Addressing misinformation in The Gambia: A project proposal and activities with a focus on theory of change
This project proposal comprises activities to address misinformation in The Gambia. It sets specific objectives to enhance media literacy knowledge and skills and improve the publishing practices of local news media and social media groups and their adherence to international ethical journalism standards. Data from past, present and ongoing media literacy initiatives will be compiled to assess the impact of current organisational and philanthropic efforts locally and beyond, and local media literacy advocates will be supported in their initiatives with the range, scope and breadth of knowledge resources compiled as a result. The output expectations from the proposed activities are an open knowledge resource comprised of evidence, best practices, success stories, thematic manuals, and training aids that local media literacy practitioners and pedagogues can use without cost, and which can inform future media literacy projects. Existing news media published erroneous information on starvation, alleged conspiracies surrounding the COVID pandemic, and discriminatory agitation against recent West African migration to The Gambia; these are just a few examples of misinformation recently found in the local media landscape. These misinformation datasets, coupled with thematic resources on international ethical journalism standards, are proposed to shed light on the influence of misinformation and open discourse for the development of trustworthy capacity. The impact of the academic and publishing output in promoting media ethics and responsible journalism has also been a focus of research beyond the study region. The Gambia's cultural proximity within a European context provides relevance for a wider audience, yet with local specificities. The proposed activities envisioned here are exploratory and topical longitudinal thematic studies that will be undertaken in partnership with two local institutions, outside the context of existing collaborative ties. Considering the developing academic vs. economic and political North vs. South discourse within the emerging sector of digital communications and misinformation, this project proposal posits that all initiatives to censor, block or quell misinformation are futile until trust has been earned.
LaLibre.net Tecnologías Comunitarias – Weaving the Network of Digital Rights Defenders in Ecuador 2024: Second national gathering
Following the success of the first gathering, which was organised by LaLibre.net Tecnologías Comunitarias with the support of APC in 2023 and included the participation of eight organisations, the second national meeting of digital rights defenders in Ecuador seeks to strengthen and expand this collaborative network. The event brings together human rights and environmental defenders, journalists, and activists from diverse sectors. This two-day gathering will focus on reinforcing the ties that unite these defenders in the face of growing threats such as surveillance, authoritarianism and the repression of social movements, promoting inclusive, feminist and sustainable approaches to digital rights advocacy. The first day will be dedicated to internal discussions, where participants will work to strengthen relationships and develop joint strategies to address shared challenges. The second day will be open to the public, featuring workshops and sessions aimed at communities, with a particular focus on women, Indigenous peoples, and under-represented groups. Topics will include digital rights, surveillance, privacy, and how to collectively advocate for human rights across all spheres. The goal of this gathering is to promote gender equity and build long-term collaborations while developing a sustainability plan that ensures the network’s continuity and growth. Additionally, it will foster connections between organisations that are already APC members and those interested in joining, strengthening the global movement for digital rights. With this event, LaLibre.net hopes to lay the foundations for an inclusive, resilient and collaborative movement in Ecuador addressing digital rights through the lens of human rights, environmental protection and gender justice.
May First Movement Technology – Cutting the cord: Understanding our dependence on surveillance capitalism
"Cutting the cord: Understanding our dependence on surveillance capitalism" will explore the use of corporate internet platforms, like Google and others, by activists and organisers whose values are directly opposed to Big Tech. Through surveys, focus groups and one-on-one interviews, May First aims to better understand the corporate features most critical to organising, the missing features in autonomous alternatives, and the more general barriers to a transition to alternative technology. This research will lead to a more strategic approach to reducing our dependence on corporate technology and help improve and create alternatives and the support, training and documentation needed to transition our movements to safer and more sustainable technology.
Media Awareness and Justice Initiative (MAJI) – The Community-Centred Digital Access project (with WACC co-funding)
At the start of January 2023, according to the DataReportal website, internet penetration in Nigeria stood at 55.4% of the total population of 220 million people. In reality, over 50% of the total population have limited and no internet access. This has been due to high internet costs, disproportional market forces, and poverty. This lack of digital access for marginalised groups continues to hinder Nigeria’s attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 9, which aims at building resilient infrastructure and promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, while also fostering innovation. The expansion of the MAJI community network infrastructure and incorporation of a digital lab/hub into the overall framework of the digital access project will increase the number of people with access to the community network. The project will provide a platform for digital skill trainings and empowerment for interested target groups. The goals for the project include setting up a solar backhaul digital lab for IT trainings for 100 young people to provide digital services like digital marketing, animation, filmmaking and other IT services; expansion of the MAJI community network infrastructure to cover an additional 100 to 300 community network users and residents in three extra last-mile communities; installation of five additional environmental sensors to further expand the MAJI environmental data collection network; interactive engagements with CSOs focusing on climate change and communication rights; and awareness raising by facilitating radio talk shows and call-in programmes broadcast in widely understandable languages.
Media Matters for Democracy (MMfD) – Enhancing media capacity for reporting on digital rights in Pakistan
This project seeks to address the gap in Pakistani journalism surrounding the reporting of internet governance, digital rights, and the growing influence of Big Tech corporations. As Pakistan’s digital landscape rapidly evolves – with legislative changes, increased surveillance, and deeper involvement of tech giants – journalists often lack the skills and resources to report on these issues in an informed and critical manner. This impacts public understanding and limits accountability regarding digital rights, privacy and freedom of expression. Aligned with APC's strategic plan to promote digital inclusion, human rights and social justice, this project is designed to fill a significant gap that impacts the understanding of the digital landscape in the Pakistani media community. Strengthening journalistic capacity will empower journalists to provide deeper, rights-based reporting that challenges the power structures perpetuating digital inequality and oppression. By fostering informed public discourse, the project contributes to APC’s goal of positioning human rights and gender justice at the centre of digital governance discussions. To address this, the project will deliver comprehensive training and resources to equip journalists with the knowledge and tools needed to critically report on internet governance and Big Tech’s influence, ensuring that digital policies in Pakistan are transparent, rights-respecting and accountable.
Myanmar Internet Project (MIP) – Mesh Networking Training
MIP, working in collaboration with TakNet and EngageMedia, aims to equip activists from Myanmar and Thailand with hands-on knowledge on deploying mesh networks, fostering technical empowerment in marginalised communities. The project emphasises cross-border exchange of experiences in internet circumvention, enabling civil society groups in both countries to share and adapt innovative strategies.
To ensure sustainability and long term impact, the project will produce practical resources such as guides and recordings documenting the set-up of mesh networks in real-world scenarios. These resources will serve as tools for implementing effective connectivity solutions for affected and underserved communities, bridging the digital divide and enhancing resilience against internet shutdowns and restrictions.
Nodo TAU – “Weaving our history and our work... on the way to 30 years”
As Nodo TAU approaches its 30th anniversary, its proposes with this project to generate an instance of evaluation, analysis and joint training of the different teams of Nodo TAU, which will allow the organisation, within the framework of the review of its history, to delve into the most important axes that have led it to this point. To do so, it will develop instances of internal collective reflection, it will also seek contributions from specialists in the different fields that feed its work. Finally, it will invite other organisations that work in similar lines of the three different axes in which it works: the technological-environmental, the social and productive, and the pedagogical and communicational. A particular challenge of this project is to deepen and expand the meeting points and potentialities of the relationship between digital inclusion and the circular economy, which are the two main axes of Nodo TAU’s work today. With this project it also proposes to improve the organisation’s physical work space and better equipping the space it uses for training activities and workshops.
Pangea – Improving your TECH use and agendas: More eco-friendly and sustainable?
Pangea continues to support transformative organisations in its community and promote access to ethical technologies for greater collective capacity through the development, publication and dissemination of educational and practical materials on critical decisions in the consumption and use of ICTs. With this particular project, it aims to focus on three topics: 1) reporting problems/errors properly, 2) reinforcing points related to sustainable and eco-friendly use of email services and Nextcloud services, and 3) considerations when commissioning web developments, offering tools for organisations’ ethical tech use improvement and self-teaching and promoting socially and environmentally responsible use of technologies.
Point of View – Countering gendered disinformation in India
Point of View, along with Chambal Academy, is developing resources for women, women human rights defenders (WHRDs), sexual rights activists, feminist activists and queer and trans activists that can help contribute to the protection and promotion of fundamental online freedoms in India, by deepening the understanding of gendered disinformation, and developing strategies to counter it. The resources will aid and enable feminist and queer groups that Point of View works with to understand, prevent and respond to identity-based disinformation with a focus on gender. To maximise reach and impact, we will be exploring ways of developing these resources both in multiple languages and for offline and online dissemination; this is essential for a linguistically diverse country such as India with varying levels of internet access across diverse geographies. The resources cover a range of important information about gendered disinformation, including tools to facilitate action to counter identity-based disinformation and seek redressal against it – for example, by understanding how to identify gendered disinformation, carrying out fact-checks to ascertain the veracity of information, and seeking remedies through social media platforms and law enforcement, where applicable. Rooted in research findings, outputs from a series of consultations with stakeholders, and several community-based and media case studies, the resources will serve as a way of inviting communities to engage with, make and constantly re-make the conceptual framework of gendered disinformation, its impacts, and actions to take when encountering instances of gendered disinformation. Furthermore, it will be designed as an interactive learning experience that illustrates the origins and journey of disinformation, illustrating the various sites, modalities and impacts on women and gender and sexual minorities. This is part of an ongoing critical evidence- and resilience-building effort that encourages strategies for collective as well as individual action, also offering effective advocacy strategies to engage key actors (state, platforms, media, etc.) to address the problem of gendered disinformation.
PROTEGE QV – Rehabilitation and strengthening of Radio Flambeau in Banka (Cameroon) in preparation for the 2025 elections (with WACC co-funding)
This is a co-funded proposal with WACC, with APC and WACC contributing 50% of the funding each. In the Haut-Nkam department of Cameroon's West region, with a population of over 200,000 and 51% women, although women are very dynamic economic agents, their voices are often not heard when it comes to making important decisions in the department. The same applies to their civic participation. PROTEGE QV, in partnership with the Association Flambeau Dames de Banka, wishes to use Radio Flambeau, created in 2009 and broadcasting in this department, to inform and raise awareness among women, but also to give them a voice with a view to improving their civic participation. The project will enable Radio Flambeau to refurbish its equipment and facilities, build the capacity of its production and broadcasting staff, support women's organisations in the department in producing content, and partner with other structures to enable exchanges and support sustainability. Radio Flambeau will thus be able to regularly broadcast, in Haut-Nkam and on the internet, programmes enabling women to understand the stakes of civic participation and particularly of the presidential, legislative and municipal elections planned for 2025 and 2026, and to make their voices heard and improve their civic participation.
Rudi International – HakiConf 2024
Rudi International plans to host the 5th edition of its annual flagship event, the Conference on Human Rights in the Digital Age in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), also known as HakiConf. Being the first of its kind in the DRC and in Francophone Africa, HakiConf serves as a platform where conversations on the most pressing issues affecting internet freedoms and digital rights are held, with the objective of addressing the challenges that the Congolese population is facing at the intersection of technology and human rights.
Servelots – Towards negotiating content from low-literate communities
Servelots and Janastu have been working on bringing communities, low-literate included, to indulge in Wi-Fi mesh activities so that there is support for them to come together and contribute their stories. For this we have developed Plasma (earlier called Papad) and Sweets (renarration work) which is made available locally on the mesh network (public versions can be seen at stories.janastu.org and sweets.janastu.org). We are orienting the community to come to our Craftcenter and visiting them in their villages to collect stories and introduce them to these to get their feedback. At the same time, we are looking at how AI these days can be introduced to them to observe how they can pick up from verbal learning and how they interact with the available tools. We want to have a holistic environment, often experimental, to bring them and their children to engage with these directions.
Sulá Batsú – Changing the game: Advocating for better gender practice in the IT industry
Since 2013, Sulá Batsú and its network of women in technology, TIC-as, have been working to understand and act on how gender is a determining factor in the participation of women in the digital society. In 2018, they initiated participatory action research processes to study in depth the work of women in the digital industry and its impact on living conditions. They have generated evidence on the difference in opportunities for professional and personal growth, the triple efforts required by women to advance, the violent and exclusionary environment they face and the questioning of their knowledge and proposals due to their gender. With this grant, Sulá Batsú wants to transform the evidence gathered into advocacy actions that contribute to generating business, academic and national policies that transform the digital industry in Costa Rica so that this sector becomes an opportunity for the full exercise of women's economic rights.
TEDIC – Digital violence is real
The problem that TEDIC wants to address is the increasing prevalence of digital gender-based violence, which often goes unnoticed or unaddressed. This issue is critical because it directly impacts the safety and well-being of individuals, particularly women and marginalised groups, in online spaces. Without proper awareness and resources, victims are left vulnerable and without clear paths to justice. To tackle this, TEDIC plans to enhance its existing web platform, "Digital Violence is Real", by improving user experience, updating information on perpetrators, and providing more tools for victims. Additionally, it will expand its outreach through public awareness campaigns and workshops, particularly around 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to ensure that more people understand and can combat digital violence. This initiative will empower victims and strengthen the community's response to online abuse.
Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE) – Promoting Women's Equality and Rights (POWER) in Bangladesh
VOICE proposes a comprehensive project to bolster the efforts of Bangladeshi civil society in promoting gender equality and preventing technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV). This initiative is designed to integrate advocacy, campaigning and capacity-building interventions to create a robust and empowered community of women human rights defenders (WHRDs) and female journalists. The project will undertake activities such as monitoring and documenting TFGBV cases to provide a clear picture of the current landscape and challenges. By systematically tracking these violations, the project aims to build a substantial online database that can be referred to for advocacy, research, law enforcement and policy reforms. Capacity development training on gender-sensitive activism and reporting will be conducted to equip WHRDs and journalists with necessary skills to address TFGBV effectively. This component will also include digital safety and security training, ensuring that WHRDs and journalists protect themselves from online gender-based violence including gendered disinformation. The project also emphasises engaging with influential stakeholders – such as WHRDs, activists, CSOs, policy makers, etc. – through advocacy meetings to foster understanding and collaboration. The advocacy efforts aim to influence policy, encourage the adoption of more robust measures to prevent and respond to TFGBV alongside raising public and stakeholders’ awareness about the project’s messages. Furthermore, by leveraging social/digital media campaigns, the initiative will raise awareness about GBV as a human rights violation to educate the public, reduce stigma, and build a supportive environment for survivors. Through these multifaceted efforts – advocacy meetings, case monitoring, social media campaigns and capacity development trainings – VOICE aims to create a more equitable and safe digital space for women in Bangladesh. The project’s holistic approach not only addresses the immediate needs of tackling TFGBV, but also seeks to build a sustainable framework for long-term change, contributing to the broader goal of gender equality and elimination of GBV.
Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) – Women in journalism and politics: Countering gendered disinformation in Uganda
In Uganda, gendered disinformation has been on the rise, with women politicians and journalists frequently targeted, especially those covering politically sensitive topics. These attacks not only hinder women’s political participation, but also threaten democratic principles by discouraging potential female leaders. Gendered disinformation undermines democratic processes and exacerbates gender inequalities, making it essential to address this issue to ensure a fair and just electoral landscape. This project seeks to empower female journalists and women in leadership, particularly in politics, to combat the growing issue of gendered disinformation in Uganda. It will involve thorough documentation of the nature and narratives of gendered disinformation and the platforms and mechanisms through which disinformation spreads and affects women. A comprehensive needs assessment will be conducted to better understand the prevalence and impact of gendered disinformation on these target groups, resulting in a detailed report with case studies and actionable recommendations. The findings from the needs assessment will inform the design of training sessions for 10 women politicians and 15 journalists. These sessions will focus on digital literacy, critical thinking and online safety, equipping participants with the skills necessary to identify and counter disinformation effectively. Additionally, educational materials will be developed to support women in politics and journalism in recognising and combating disinformation. As part of the project, an X/Twitter Space discussion will be held on the role of a multistakeholder approach in countering gendered disinformation. Information, education, and communication (IEC) materials will also be developed from the needs assessment, capacity-building workshops and the X/Twitter Space discussion, aimed at raising awareness about gendered disinformation and its impact on women's rights online. This initiative seeks to contribute to a more equitable digital landscape in Uganda.
Zaina Foundation – Coalition and movement building in the fight against internet shutdowns in Tanzania during upcoming elections
The digital rights landscape in Tanzania has witnessed significant advancements over the past decade, notably in internet access and mobile connectivity. As of 2024, there are approximately 36.8 million internet users in the country, enabling many Tanzanians to leverage digital platforms for economic growth, education and social interaction. Despite this progress, critical challenges persist that threaten the very rights these advancements are meant to uphold. Among the digital rights challenges in Tanzania is the occurrence of internet shutdowns during election periods and democratic events like demonstrations, a practice that clearly infringes on freedom of expression in Tanzania. Social media was targeted during the last presidential elections in Tanzania in 2020, with Twitter/X, Facebook, Telegram, YouTube and WhatsApp all blocked during the election period; the Clubhouse platform remains inaccessible until today. Zaina Foundation, as the leading organisation in promoting digital rights and inclusion in Tanzania, formed the Digital Rights Coalition (DRC), comprising 20 civil society organisations from the Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar to enable collective forces for advocacy for policy reform around digital rights. As well as calling on the government not to shut down the internet in the upcoming elections in 2024, there are also plans for capacity building to predict and respond to shutdowns, including capacity building on internet shutdown scenarios and use of circumvention tools. In addition, due to an increase of surveillance and censorship, Zaina Foundation is proposing a project to build capacity on digital security through a three-day training session for the 20 members of the Digital Rights Coalition, as well as designing a three-year strategic advocacy plan.