Bangladesh: How LGBTQIAP+ Youth are Leading a Movement for Online Safety and Gender Justice

By: Munni

Over the past six months, Pathchola Foundation has witnessed a transformative shift in the digital safety and empowerment of LGBTQIAP+ individuals, particularly gender-diverse youth. Through the FON-supported Programme for Enhancing Skills to Promote Social Inclusion, Munni, a young lesbian woman from Chattogram, has spearheaded a movement for digital security, ensuring that marginalized voices are protected and amplified online. Her efforts in training LGBTQIAP+ individuals on cyber safety, privacy, and online advocacy have not only increased awareness but have also built a strong network of digital resilience within the community. This change has led to greater digital literacy, the creation of safe online spaces, and increased confidence among queer youth to navigate digital platforms securely.

This change is significant because digital security is often overlooked as a critical aspect of gender justice. In a conservative society where LGBTQIAP+ individuals face discrimination both online and offline, the ability to protect oneself in digital spaces is crucial. Munni’s leadership in promoting online safety has empowered gender-diverse individuals to reclaim their digital presence, counter cyberbullying, and safeguard their personal data. By fostering digital literacy, the initiative directly aligns with Pathchola Foundation’s mission of creating inclusive, safe, and empowering environments for marginalized communities.

Several factors contributed to this change. The FON-supported training equipped Munni with the necessary skills and knowledge to lead digital security initiatives. Pathchola Foundation’s commitment to feminist leadership and intersectional advocacy provided the platform for her to share and expand her expertise. Additionally, the growing need for digital safety among LGBTQIAP+ individuals, coupled with Munni’s dedication and the support of a strong feminist network, enabled the success of this initiative. The participation of community members and allies further strengthened the impact, creating a ripple effect of awareness and resilience.

The key stakeholders involved in this process included:

• Pathchola Foundation’s internal team, which provided strategic guidance, resources, and logistical support for training sessions.
• LGBTQIAP+ community members who actively participated in workshops, shared experiences, and implemented digital security measures for their agency.
• Digital rights activists and feminist networks who collaborated in knowledge-sharing and advocacy efforts.
• Human rights organizations and cyber safety experts offered technical expertise, ensuring that the training covered the latest digital security threats and solutions.
• Local community leaders and educators helped in spreading awareness about the importance of digital safety within broader communities.

These stakeholders played crucial roles in mobilizing resources, engaging participants, and sustaining the impact of the initiative beyond the immediate training sessions.

The sustainability of these changes relies on continued education, collaboration, and advocacy. Pathchola Foundation plans to:

• Expand digital security training sessions to reach more LGBTQIAP+ individuals and marginalized youth.
• Develop an online resource hub with accessible information on digital safety, privacy, and cyber resilience.
• Strengthen partnerships with feminist networks, digital rights organizations, and policymakers to advocate for safer online environments.
• Establish mentorship programs where trained individuals like Munni can guide and support others in developing digital security skills.
• Conduct periodic assessments and feedback sessions to adapt and improve training modules based on emerging digital threats.

Through these strategies, Pathchola Foundation aims to build a future where digital security is recognized as a fundamental right, ensuring that marginalized voices remain empowered, protected, and heard.

Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) Project

FON contributes to the eradication of gender-based violence worldwide through flexible funding. The Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) project aims to strengthen feminist movements by providing grants, particularly to small, unregistered organizations. With a budget of 7 million euros, FON also offers long-term mentoring and tailored training. Additionally, the project includes an action-research component to ensure the expansion and sustainability of these approaches.