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A new e-learning course created by young people for young people has just launched, aiming to tackle the growing issue of online harassment. Swipe, Stand, Protect: Take Action Against Online Harassment encourages young people to take an active role in making digital spaces safer, more inclusive, and more respectful.
“Young people often encounter harmful content online – from hurtful comments and discriminatory videos to non-consensual image sharing and AI-generated deepfakes,” says Mega Puspitasari, Youth Advocate at Generation 4Ward and Advocacy Officer at Koalisi Perempuan Indonesia (KPI). “These experiences can have a serious impact on individuals’ wellbeing and on entire communities.”
The course was developed by Generation 4Ward, a collective of youth gender justice advocates from over seven countries in Asia, Africa and Europe. It helps learners explore the root causes and real-life effects of online harassment, and discover ways to take meaningful action. Using interactive tools such as quizzes, videos, and realistic scenarios, participants build the skills and confidence to respond effectively when they witness harassment online.
“What sets this course apart is that it was shaped directly by young people”
“What sets this course apart is that it was shaped directly by young people,” says Mohamad Al Arnaout, Youth Advocate at Generation4Ward Lebanon. “It reflects real experiences, is based on solid research into technology-facilitated gender-based violence, and incorporates insights from youth focus group discussions.”
Generation 4Ward is part of Generation G, a partnership that equips youth leaders and civil society organisations to address the root causes of gender inequality. Generation G works to challenge power structures and harmful social norms that drive abuse and violence. By strengthening skills in media outreach, advocacy, and campaigning, the programme is increasing the number of young people actively working to prevent sexual and gender-based violence. “Young people are at the heart of Generation G – as catalysts for change and as a key target group,” says a Sanne Huijsman from Rutgers, lead organisation of the Generation G partnership.
The course is now available for free in English, French, and Indonesian at the Rutgers Academy, with Arabic coming in July.
Sign up now and be part of the effort to create safer digital communities.