Online violence against women journalists is threatening free expression

Targeted online violence against women journalists is increasing. Rising authoritarianism, networked misogyny and technologies that enable the rapid production and distribution of hate speech are driving this trend.

AI tools have further intensified an already serious problem. They allow anyone to create and spread content that deepens and accelerates harm against women journalists. This ranges from misogynistic abuse and harassment to instant nudification and even the simulation of sexual assault.

The impact extends far beyond the individual. It affects colleagues, newsroom culture and, ultimately, freedom of expression itself.

A recent UN Women report highlights the scale of the issue. As a result of online attacks:

• 24.7% of journalists and media workers reported being diagnosed with or treated for anxiety and/or depression.
• 45.3% reported self-censoring on social media.
• 21.7% reported self-censoring at work.

Online violence limits women journalists’ ability to participate fully in fundamental aspects of their work. Research shows that some avoid covering certain topics out of fear of backlash and abuse. This not only restricts career development opportunities, but can also leave important issues underreported due to threats of violence.

What makes this crisis particularly dangerous is that its consequences extend far beyond individual journalists. When women journalists are pushed into self-censorship, the public loses access to important perspectives and critical reporting.

The growing normalisation of misogynistic online abuse risks reshaping journalism itself, determining who gets to speak and which stories are ultimately told. Addressing online violence against women journalists is, therefore, not only a matter of individual safety, but a necessary defence of media freedom and democratic discourse.

Reported prevalence of self-censorship as a result of online violence, by profession.