iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 28/09/2026

🌍 Join us on 1 October for the launch of the Community Network Builder, a new tool to help communities plan the technical and financial sustainability of local networks. 🕖 7 UTC & 21 UTC 🗣️ Spanish interpretation at 21 UTC More + register: www.apc.org/en/event/web...

Graphic promoting the “Community Network Builder” webinar. It describes the tool as supporting local network demand, supply and financial planning. Hosted by Jonathan Brewer, Community Network Builder developer, on 1 October 2026, with sessions at 7 UTC and 21 UTC; Spanish interpretation is available for the 21 UTC session. The design uses green, yellow, blue and red abstract illustrations of connectivity, landscape and nature.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 27/09/2026

This report is one of the 10 reports developed under the third cycle of the Feminist Internet Research Network (FIRN). Read more about the other reports here: 📖 firn.genderit.org/research

Text only graphic explaining that the report is one of the 10 reports developed under the third cycle of the Feminist Internet Research Network (FIRN). Since 2024, the 10 FIRN research partners from a diversity of locations in Africa (Ethiopia, South Africa), Asia (India, Tajikistan), Latin America and the Caribbean (Brazil, Uruguay) and Southwest Asia and North Africa (Egypt, Palestine) have embarked on a journey to deepen the discursive framing of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) by emphasising a more intentional application of feminist intersectional analysis.

Read all full reports here: firn.genderit.org/research

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 27/09/2026

More than a way of generating knowledge, research can be a political practice through which women reclaim their narratives.

The slide shows three different quotes from women interviewed: 1) “I am drowning under the weight of hatred.”; 2) “I want people to understand that cyber violence is not just words on a screen. These are real feelings, real pain and suffering.” 3) “I dream of a world where women can freely express their thoughts without fear of violence.” Text read: Together, these testimonies show that feminist research can be more than a way of generating knowledge: it can also be a political practice through which women reclaim their narratives and decide how their stories are told and represented. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 27/09/2026

Victim-blaming, social stigma and the normalisation of violence often resulted in survivors being held responsible for the abuse they experienced.

Text read: Many women reported receiving little support from family members, communities or institutions after experiencing TFGBV. Victim-blaming, social stigma and the normalisation of violence often resulted in survivors being held responsible for the abuse they experienced. In many cases, controlling women’s access to and use of technology also led to physical violence by family members. Where husbands and fathers are seen by their local communities as legitimate authorities, their “corrective” actions often go unchallenged and even be viewed as preserving the existing patriarchal gender order. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: The consequences of TFGBV extend far beyond digital spaces. Women described severe impacts on their mental health, safety, livelihoods and family relationships. Some experienced physical violence, social isolation and ongoing fear. Others lost employment opportunities, housing, financial security and social standing within their communities. In some other cases, women reported divorce, loss of child custody and forced displacement. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 27/09/2026

Social expectations around honour, morality and family reputation shape women's experiences of TFGBV, while hate speech is used to silence women who speak up.

Text read: Social expectations around honour, morality and family reputation shape women's experiences of TFGBV. Perpetrators exploit these norms through blackmail, image-based abuse and threats to expose personal information, using fear of social consequences to control and punishment. In one case, a woman’s children accidentally uploaded her intimate photographs to her social media account. She saw the post and deleted it within five minutes, but someone had saved and reposted her photographs and then blackmailed her. In order to pay the blackmailer, she sold her flat. In the process, her husband also divorced her, and she lost custody of her children. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide

Text read: Hate speech is used to silence women who speak up. Many of the TFGBV cases examined involved hate speech directed at women who challenged, or appeared to challenge, gender norms. Women were targeted for advocating women's rights, expressing political opinions, pursuing public careers, engaging in activism or simply posting photographs of themselves. They were labelled immoral, shameless or disrespectful of tradition, and subjected to threats, insults and public humiliation. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 27/09/2026

The findings show that TFGBV enables greater control over women through pressure to conform to gender stereotypes through various tactics and forms of violence.

Text read: The findings show that TFGBV enables greater control over women through pressure to conform to gender stereotypes. These expectations shape how women dress and express themselves and require them to be submissive and obedient in family relationships. Harassment and stalking, blackmailing, slander, defamation and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images were reported in both rural and urban areas, regardless of how active women are on social media. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: One of the most common forms of TFGBV identified in the research was digital surveillance. Underneath the text is a quote by one interviewee described how technology can be used to monitor women: “I know it’s quite common for Viber or WhatsApp to be connected to the desktop, with husbands monitoring their wives’ every communication. Women, due to their lack of digital literacy, may not even realise that their messages are being read.” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 27/09/2026

Research by Women’s Center “Gulrukhsor”, developed under third cycle of FIRN, examines technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) as a continuum with offline violence, reinforcing patriarchal norms used to control women. 🎨 Illustration by @perempuanmelawanart

Cover slide with the title of the research: “I am drowning under the weight of hatred”: The scope and nature of technology-facilitated gender-based violence in Tajikistan. The illustration depicts a group of 9 Tajikistan women working together to rebuild a maze-like structure connected with semi-conductor wiring. Women are seen picking up debris from the ground and constructing the structure.

Text read: Against the backdrop of Tajikistan’s political and social context, this research examines technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) as a continuum of offline violence that reinforces patriarchal values and established gender norms that seek to control and assert power over women. This research draws on an analysis from 22 Facebook and Instagram posts, interviews with 20 women human rights defenders, 39 women participants and 55 women participating in focus group discussions. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 22/09/2026

APC and members of our network are taking part in #RightsConContinues on 22 and 23 September 🌐 From regional meetups to a roundtable on protecting internet access in conflicts and crises, see where you can find us across the programme. 🔗 rightscon.summit.tc/catalog/righ...

APC graphic for RightsCon Continues, 22–23 September 2026. Text reads: “Join APC and our network for regional meetups and conversations on digital rights, solidarity and internet access in times of crisis.”

RightsCon Continues regional meetups involving APC members and staff. North America and Latin America regional meetup: 22 September at 8:30 p.m. UTC, co-facilitated by Jes Ciacci of Sursiendo. Asia Pacific regional meetup: 23 September at 2:45 a.m. UTC, facilitated by Red Tani of APC. Africa and MENA regional meetup: 23 September at 9:00 a.m. UTC, co-facilitated by Lama Nazeeh of 7amleh.

RightsCon Continues roundtable graphic for “Co-creating a collaborative multistakeholder emergency response mechanism to protect internet access in conflicts and crises”, taking place on 23 September at 11:30 a.m. UTC. Hosted by APC, Access Now, the Internet Governance Forum Policy Network on Cybersecurity and Resilience, 7amleh – Arab Center for Social Media Advancement and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. With Anriette Esterhuysen and Valeria Betancourt of APC and Wim Degezelle of the IGF Policy Network on Cybersecurity and Resilience.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 21/09/2026

This collection brings together perspectives from our network, alongside LocNet-related work and circles exploring care, local services and community-centred connectivity – some of the practices and possibilities we are carrying forward.

Quote from the circle “Tooling up: A collaborative approach to build meaningful software and equipment stacks for local services and community-centred connectivity”: “We had an extremely rich set of inputs around local services that community-centred connectivity initiatives could implement on their networks, with participants contributing ideas throughout the three sessions.”

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 21/09/2026

Our community shared ideas on collective action, community-centred connectivity, care as infrastructure and locally rooted technologies – including practical services and tools that respond to communities’ own needs and contexts.

Quote from Thiane Neves Barros, researcher on communication in the Amazon and activist in Black and feminist movements: “Visiting the APC booth at the Global Gathering 2026 made me realise that the work LocNet is doing with communities is incredibly important for ensuring that these communities are fully integrated into the field of digital rights and participate with an active voice – suggesting, creating, critiquing and building digital tools, technologies and policies that make sense for each context.”

Quote from the circle “Operations as care infrastructure”: “As individuals, we negotiate with systems every single day, and these systems are often not built with our needs or safety in mind. As convenors, we negotiate with these systems on behalf of our participants. That’s operational labour, and that’s where care enters.”

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 21/09/2026

The @teamcommunity.bsky.social Global Gathering was not only a space to reflect on today’s challenges, but also to imagine what we can build differently together. Featuring @engagemedia.org @equalitie.bsky.social Read more: www.apc.org/en/news/what...

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 19/09/2026

This report is one of the 10 reports developed under the third cycle of the Feminist Internet Research Network (FIRN). Read more about the other reports here: 📖 firn.genderit.org/research

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 19/09/2026

Participants spoke about deep distrust to the South African law enforcement body, at the same time, doubt in platform governance and moderation system. South African youth need safe spaces where they can talk about TFGBV without being judged, stigmatised or victim-blamed.

Text read: When reflecting on why TFGBV is underreported, a Black female participant explained her deep distrust of the South African law enforcement body in recognising online harm. The text is supported by a quote, “[O]ur justice system is really poor […] for online (crimes), because you’re going to report an account or […] a person behind an account. So you are at risk of being told that it’s not that serious, it’s not that deep. You can just block them and move on. I feel like they don’t know what to do and as a result they end up not doing anything.” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: Participants also expressed doubt in platform governance and moderation systems, with social media platforms perceived as consistently failing to prevent harm or respond effectively once it occurs. The text is supported by a quote, “All the years of me being on social media, I’ve noticed that despite reporting the people, these social media apps don’t really do much about it. Like the time someone’s identity was stolen, she reached out on social media. She’s like, please help me block this person. She came back with a report that [said] she does not have enough evidence that this person is impersonating her.” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: The research shows that there is an urgent need for stronger recognition of TFGBV in policy and public discourse. It is also clear from the research that South African youth need safe spaces to discuss their TFGBV experiences without being judged, stigmatised or subjected to victim-blaming and silencing. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 19/09/2026

TFGBV is always not experienced equally and harm is not distributed randomly but is instead structured around existing social inequalities. While participants clearly described forms of violence and violation, many did not have the language to categorise these experiences as TFGBV.

Text read: Across both social media and dating apps, the most common forms of TFGBV were sexually intrusive violations (e.g. receiving flirtatious or sexual messages and unwanted requests for nude photos/videos or to livestream sexual acts), followed by online stalking.
A Black female participant speaks from personal experience: “On my Instagram page, I have been receiving pictures from people, like disgusting pictures of their private parts and stuff.” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: TFGBV is not experienced equally, and harm is not distributed randomly but is instead structured around existing social inequalities, including sexuality, gender norms, race, ethnicity and economic power. Black African women participants shared their experience of racialised fetishisation in the digital space, rooted in the colonial history of feminisation and sexualisation of their bodies as a commodity. The text is supported by a quote, “[I] have personally experienced, [on an] online dating app, white men wanting to be with Black women, and they would actually say such offensive things like, ‘I just want to experiment what it’s like being with Black women. I just want to feel if your bum is actually real.’ ” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: A single mother participant also shared how traditional stereotypes that portray single mothers as needing an intimate male partner for their family exposes them to misogynistic and derogatory comments. The text is supported by a quote, “[T]here is a stigma that once you are a mother, you are desperate to find a man. […] I had an experience with someone. We were [at] a talking stage. He told me that he does not want to be the stepfather of my child. And I was like, ‘I don’t need a stepfather for my child. I’m just looking for a romantic relationship.’ [He] told me that there is no way he’s going to marry someone with a child because that was below his standard. ” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: Harm is often experienced before it is named. While participants clearly described forms of violence and violation, many did not have the language to categorise these experiences as TFGBV. When harm is not named, it becomes harder to report. It also shapes what people consider “serious enough” to seek for help, contributing to silence, underreporting and the normalisation of violence in digital spaces. The text is supported by a quote, “[I]nsulting people and just posting someone’s pictures without their consent. I don’t know the term for that, and I don’t think others know the term as well. So we wouldn’t even be aware that this is happening. Yes, we have the POPI Act*, but I feel like there’s limitations. ” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide. Below the slide is a small note that read: POPI Act: The Protection of Personal Information Act is South Africa's primary data privacy law.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 19/09/2026

How do existing stigma around sexuality and gender stereotypes shape university students’ experience of finding love on social media and online dating apps in South Africa? Research by KASA Training and Development, under FIRN’s third cycle, investigates students’ experiences of TFGBV. 🧵

Cover of a carousel promoting the research report title: Experiences of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) on online dating apps and social media platforms among university students in South Africa. Behind the title is an illustration depicting a Black woman in conversation with a pixelated human-life figure. The figure is surrounded by speech bubbles and digital icons. Both the Black woman and pixelated icon are sitting on a white cloud, with semi-conductor lines underneath it.

Text read: Using surveys and focus group discussions, the research weaves together the stories of university students navigating digital spaces to find love, alongside the violence, stereotypes and stigma they encounter on social media and online dating apps within the South African context.. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 18/09/2026

The cohort brings together civil society, technical communities, governments, regulators, academia and research, business, media and intergovernmental organisations. Explore the #AfriSIG26 fellows and their profiles: www.afrisig.org/afrisig-2026

Orange graphic reading, “Different sectors. Shared digital futures.” The 2026 fellows bring perspectives from civil society, the technical community, government, regulatory authorities, academia and research, business, media and intergovernmental organisations. Together in Accra, they will learn, exchange and work across sectors on pressing questions shaping internet and AI governance in Africa. The Black Star Gate appears at the bottom.

African School on Internet Governance 2026: “Building Internet Governance Leadership in Africa.” The event will take place from 27 October to 1 November 2026 in Accra, Ghana. Organising-partner logos: APC, Research ICT Africa, African Union, Ghana’s Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, National Communications Authority and Ghana Domain Name Registry. Supporter logos: Internet Society, ICANN, Public Interest Registry, Identity Digital, Luminate, Media Foundation for West Africa, German Cooperation/GIZ and DW Akademie.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 18/09/2026

Across more than five days in Accra, fellows will explore internet and digital policy in Africa and globally – with a particular focus on AI governance in the African context, alongside data governance, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, human rights and platform regulation.

First group of AfriSIG 2026 fellows, shown in individual portraits: Adeboro Pelumi Odunlami, Nigeria; Aminata Dembele, Mali; Angel Norman Agong, Uganda; Athandiwe Saba, South Africa; Audrey Kawire Wabwire, Kenya; Barbara Phyllis Barnes, Ghana; Bintou Mariam Traoré, Côte d’Ivoire; Bonaventure Saturday, Uganda; Catherine Kathini Kyalo, Kenya; Charles Amaechi Ikem, Nigeria; Christella Nizigama, Burundi; and Clairette Paola Mbang Ngoutane, Cameroon.

Second group of AfriSIG 2026 fellows: Damien Serge Tsilla Ndongo, Cameroon; Diana Kemunto Nyakundi, Kenya; Doreen Chilaka Kapoteza, Malawi; Edrine Wanyama, Uganda; Folaranmi Josephine Umoru, Nigeria; Harouna Issaka, Niger; Hassan Hussein, Somalia; Isabela Maria Katondo, Tanzania; Issaka Maman Lourwana, Niger; Jamaldeen Seidu, Ghana; and James Kunle Olorundare, Nigeria.

Third group of AfriSIG 2026 fellows: Janine Anthea King, South Africa; Jaqueline Amongin, Uganda; John Muthuri Kathure, Kenya; Kenley Sérgio Cossa, Mozambique; Lucy Chikodili Okonkwo, Nigeria; Melat Getachew Haile, Ethiopia; Mohamed Babah Turay, Sierra Leone; Moussa Waly Sene, Senegal; Nana Nyama Danso, Ghana; Nazarius Nicholas Kirama, Tanzania; and Olaitan Aminat Olanrewaju, Nigeria.

Fourth group of AfriSIG 2026 fellows: Ompha Tshamano, South Africa; Patricia Etornam Adafienu, Ghana; Rehemah Patricks, Malawi; Samuel Ayode Longe, Nigeria; Sihle Nyathi, Zimbabwe; Susan Valentine Wanja Gatura, Kenya; Sylvain William Sop Tahfo, Cameroon; Ugochi Favour Ihe, Nigeria; Uvanda Siyotula, South Africa; Walid Naffati, Tunisia; and Yao Amevi Amessinou Sossou, Benin.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 18/09/2026

Meet the 45 fellows joining the African School on Internet Governance 2026 🌍Coming from 20 countries, the #AfriSIG26 cohort brings together perspectives from across Africa’s internet and digital policy ecosystem. Meet the fellows 🧵

Yellow AfriSIG 2026 announcement graphic featuring Accra’s Black Star Gate. Text: “27 October–1 November 2026, Accra, Ghana. Meet the African School on Internet Governance (AfriSIG) 2026 fellows. 45 fellows. 20 countries. A wide range of perspectives shaping Africa’s digital future.” Logos of APC, Research ICT Africa and the African Union appear below.

“What is AfriSIG?” The African School on Internet Governance is described as an intensive, interactive learning and leadership development programme bringing together people working across Africa’s internet and digital policy ecosystem. Now in its 14th edition, AfriSIG is an initiative of the Association for Progressive Communications, African Union Commission and Research ICT Africa. Two group photos of previous participants appear below.

“What will AfriSIG 2026 explore?” AfriSIG will examine internet and digital policy in Africa and globally, particularly artificial intelligence governance in the African context. Over five days, fellows will engage with AI governance and regulation; data governance and protection; digital inclusion and inequality; cybersecurity, trust and safety; platform regulation; human rights and gender; internet infrastructure and governance; and digital sovereignty and emerging technologies.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 17/09/2026

GreenNet’s history is also a story about how the internet changed – and why decentralised, community-centred alternatives still matter. Read the full conversation: www.apc.org/en/news/gree...

Cream-coloured slide reflecting on GreenNet’s continued work 40 years later. Small magenta text at the top reads Forty years later. The main heading But GreenNet is still here appears in large white text on overlapping magenta and dark green blocks, with an orange hand-drawn underline beneath. Body text reads: Forty years later, it continues supporting charities, activists and movements with digital tools grounded in trust and community. A large dark green box contains a quote from Liz Probert: To be able to still be helping small charities, activists... I think that’s something to be proud of. Her name appears below in pale green capital letters. A large pink paperclip graphic is attached to the right side of the quote box. The lower section contains a panoramic photograph of the GreenNet offices, showing desks, computers, shelves, plants, posters and a person working at a computer. A caption reads: A panorama of the GreenNet offices. Photo courtesy of GreenNet.

Cream-coloured closing slide focused on the future. Small magenta text at the top reads What comes next. The heading Looking towards the next 10 years appears in large white text across overlapping dark green and magenta blocks. Below, dark text reads: For GreenNet and APC, the challenge remains to build technology around people, diversity and participation. A large magenta quote beneath reads: We’ve got to keep people at the centre. The quote is attributed to Karen Banks, whose name appears below in muted green capital letters. Near the bottom right, a call to action reads Read the full conversation above a magenta rectangle containing apc.org in large white text. A thin strip along the bottom uses cream, orange, dark green and magenta blocks matching the carousel’s visual identity.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 17/09/2026

In 1990, GreenNet became one of the organisations that founded APC. Four decades later, it is still supporting charities, activists and movements with digital tools grounded in trust, autonomy and community.

Cream-coloured slide about GreenNet’s role in the founding of APC. At the top, small magenta text reads 1990 / Founding APC. The headline Those connections helped build a global network is broken across three overlapping blocks in magenta, dark green and orange. Body text explains: GreenNet later became one of the organisations that founded APC in 1990, helping connect activists and civil society across regions. The lower half features a tilted archival image labelled APC’s network in 1994. The black-and-white map shows APC member and partner networks distributed across regions of the world and linked through different communication systems. The archival image is presented like a paper photograph with a paperclip graphic at the upper right. A magenta outlined circle decorates the upper right corner.

Dark green slide marking a shift in the story. Small orange text reads Then something changed. The heading The internet changed dramatically is displayed in large dark green text on overlapping orange and cream blocks. Below, white text reads: What once felt like an open network increasingly became shaped by commercialisation, corporate platforms and walled gardens. A thin horizontal line separates this text from a large quotation beneath: It seemed like... we were going to have a global network of activists. The quote is attributed to Cedric Knight in orange capital letters. Minimal geometric decorations appear in the upper right, including overlapping orange, muted green and dark green shapes and part of a large orange outlined circle.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 17/09/2026

@greennet.social has been building digital communications for social and environmental justice for 40 years. 🌱 Founded in 1985, it helped NGOs and activists get online when email and international information exchange were still costly and difficult. 🧵

Cream-coloured slide introducing GreenNet’s beginnings in 1985. Small magenta text near the upper left reads 1985. The main heading, It started with a need to connect, is displayed in large white text across overlapping magenta and dark green blocks. Body text reads: Founded in 1985, GreenNet helped NGOs and activists access digital communications when email and international information exchange were still costly and difficult. A large dark green quote box at the bottom contains a quote from Mitra Ardron: We saw the need for NGOs to have the same kind of access to technology... His name appears below in pale green capital letters. Abstract magenta and green circular and radiating shapes decorate the corners.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 15/09/2026

This first collection brings together some of those reflections from across our community.

Black quote card featuring Mohsin Saleem of Media Matters for Democracy. Quote: “The government imposes many so-called security checks. These are not really security checks; they are used to prevent work related to freedom of speech and expression, whether in journalism, media development or other areas.” APC and Global Gathering branding appears at the top.

Purple quote card featuring Mike Jensen of the Association for Progressive Communications and LocNet. Quote: “One highlight was learning more about innovative community-centred connectivity initiatives in Myanmar – including fibre networks serving thousands of users and locally developed services.” APC and Global Gathering branding appears at the top.

Turquoise quote card featuring Nikole Yañez of Código Sur. Quote: “We discussed feminist, holistic perspectives and the protection strategies that women human rights defenders in Mesoamerica are developing in response to digital violence. We are actively working on this issue and trying to make a greater effort to share information about it.” APC and Global Gathering branding appears at the top.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 15/09/2026

Across the gathering, conversations explored platform accountability, censorship, AI, digital violence, collective organising and the need to safeguard online spaces.

Turquoise quote card featuring Ahmed Qadi of 7amleh. Quote: “We do not have the luxury of duplicating our work; we truly need to coordinate and change how this ecosystem operates. We need to shift towards complementing one another rather than competing.” APC and Global Gathering branding appears at the top.

Black quote card featuring Riddhima Sharma of Point of View. Quote: “It is not as straightforward as either completely rejecting AI or completely embracing it. There is always some tension in how CSOs navigate that space and develop their own policies and safeguards.” APC and Global Gathering branding appears at the top.

Purple quote card featuring Jes Ciacci of May First Movement Technology. Quote: “Something else we have seen at this Global Gathering is the question of how we can sustain our groups when they move away from Big Tech. Many groups and circles have been discussing it, and I think it is important because this conversation had not previously been framed in this way.” APC and Global Gathering branding appears at the top.

Yellow quote card featuring Musharrat Mahera of VOICE Bangladesh. Quote: “One issue I brought to this Global Gathering is regional solidarity around Facebook and broader platform accountability. If we work together, there is some hope of securing accountability from the big platforms.” APC and Global Gathering branding appears at the top.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 15/09/2026

At the 2026 TeamCommUNITY Global Gathering, members of the APC community reflected on some of the issues shaping digital rights work today.

Turquoise graphic titled “Reflections from our community.” Text reads: “At the Global Gathering, members of the APC community came together to share experiences, questions and ideas on care, connection, technology and collective action.” Abstract multicoloured plant shapes appear on the right, with APC and Global Gathering branding at the bottom.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 11/09/2026

This report is one of the 10 reports developed under the third cycle of the Feminist Internet Research Network (FIRN). Read more about the other reports here: 📖 firn.genderit.org/research

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 11/09/2026

In the absence of effective legal or platform-based protection, TNBGD people developed strategies to respond and resist. Through innovation and coalition building, communities created collective tools, resources and platforms to challenge TFGBV and safeguard one another.

Text read: In the absence of effective legal or platform-based protection, TNBGD persons develop a range of strategies to respond to violence and to resist. Participants often have to navigate the complexities of coming out and staying closeted. Anonymity becomes critical in safeguarding queer-feminist voices and creating spaces for self-paced exploration of identity and community. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: Beyond individual strategies, participants have drawn on their lived experiences to collectivise and innovate tools to combat TFGBV. For instance, one non-binary participant, Aindriya Barua, developed an AI tool to combat intersectional and code-mixed forms of hate-speech. Another participant developed a chatbot to help survivors navigate online harassment and a tool to help survivors and creators adjust the “toxicity” level of comments. Alongside these innovations, participants developed resources and platforms where people from marginalised communities can come together and co-develop community-driven solutions to TFGBV. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 11/09/2026

TNBGD people experienced the policing and erasure of their gender identities. TFGBV affected many aspects of their lives – causing loss of housing, education, livelihoods and professional opportunities, as well as isolation, fear, depression and restricted access to digital spaces.

Text read: A unique aspect of the technology-facilitated violence encountered by TNBGD persons was the policing and erasure of their gender identities. Participants described being told they did not “look queer enough,” having their identities dismissed because of their appearance, or being excluded from community spaces based on binary norms around experiencing and expressing gender. Underneath the text is a quote a participant described having their non-binary identity dismissed by the queer community: “When they see me – a hijabi person – they assume I don’t belong. They question why I’m there. In their eyes, I don’t ‘look queer’.” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: TFGBV impacted several aspects of TNBGD persons’ lives. One participant lost access to housing and education, while several others were financially affected or lost livelihood and professional opportunities. Many felt socially isolated and found that their access to digital spaces and freedom to express themselves there were limited. Fear was a predominant effect of the violence – fear of being recognised in person, doxxed or stalked, expressing one’s opinions or beliefs, or having violent threats carried out. TNBGD persons also experienced depression, hopelessness, self-loathing, self-harm and suicidal thoughts as a result of the violence. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 11/09/2026

Originating in Black digital spaces as a tool of accountability, cancel culture is also weaponised within marginalised communities to exile people perceived to cause harm. A participant described being ostracised after speaking up about transmasculine erasure, causing anxiety and withdrawal.

Text read: A transman participant shared how he was ostracised by major non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community members as a result of speaking up about transmasculine erasure at an event organised by the trans community. Underneath the text is a quote that read: “Many of them were also my good friends. But because of this situation [...] they completely boycotted me. [...] I started experiencing anxiety, even getting anxiety attacks. I developed anger issues, so I completely distanced myself – I stopped going there and cut off communication with people.” Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: This exemplified how cancel culture, which originated in Black digital spaces as a tool of accountability, has since escaped its context and is now being used within marginalised communities to exile community members who are perceived to cause harm. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 11/09/2026

TNBGD people experienced surveillance and control of their digital lives, alongside exposure of their gender identities through doxxing, identity outing and the non-consensual sharing of personal information, images and videos.

Text read: One of the most common forms of TFGBV experienced by TNBGD persons is surveillance and control of their digital lives. Participants described being monitored by family members, caste groups, employers and even state-linked actors, with their online activity, social media engagement and communication channels closely tracked. Surveillance technologies replicate the “male gaze” and reinforce gender hierarchies and norms and patriarchal violence. In these cases they control and limit participants’ freedom to be queer and connect with their communities. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

Text read: Another central form of violence reported by TNBGD persons is exposure through doxxing, identity outing and the non-consensual sharing of personal information. Participants described instances where their pronouns, gender identity, location, financial information or private communications were leaked online. Participants also described having images and videos recorded and shared without their consent, often with the intention of ridiculing and insulting them. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 11/09/2026

Developed by Sangath under FIRN’s third cycle, this research centres the experiences of 14 transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse people, examining how TFGBV intersects with caste, class, religion, disability and region in India. 🎨 perempuanmelawanart on IG for FIRN

Cover slide with the title of the research: The TransNET project: The role of intersectionality in shaping experiences of technology-facilitated gender-based violence among transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse persons in India. The illustration depicts a diverse group of 7 non-binary, trans gender and gender-diverse people from India, with different skin colours and attire working together to construct a digital portrait of a person.

Text read: Adopting an intersectional and participatory approach, this research centres the stories of 14 transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse people (TNBGD) and explores the intricate ways in which technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) intersects with other forms of marginalisations – caste, class, religion, disability and region, in the Indian context. The researchers examine participants’ experiences of TFGBV, the strategies they use to resist violence and safeguard themselves, and the barriers they face in accessing support. Behind the text is the same background used in the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 09/09/2026

What does gender-responsive AI governance actually look like? At the launch of APC’s research on AI and TFGBV, speakers reflected on the gaps between gender equality commitments and how AI governance is actually implemented. Read more: www.apc.org/en/news/ai-a...

Light blue quote card featuring Rebecca Ryakitimbo, described as a feminist technologist, researcher and community leader. Large dark blue text reads: We need to find sort of a mechanism for… different instruments to be able to communicate to each other. The words communicate to each other are highlighted on a pale peach background. Decorative illustrations include large quotation marks, a purple cloud-like technology icon, flowing turquoise lines, leaves and abstract shapes.

Light blue quote card featuring Marina Meira, public policy coordinator at Derechos Digitales. Large dark blue text reads: A gender-balanced panel does not necessarily produce a gender-responsive discussion. The words gender-responsive discussion are highlighted on a pale peach background. The lower part of the graphic shows an illustration of a person with long dark hair facing a panel of simplified figures, with a green speech bubble containing a scribble, surrounded by abstract blue shapes.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 05/09/2026

What does openness mean when power, inequality and exclusion are built into the systems around us? GISWatch 2026: Free/libre and open source software – Visions of openness from the Global South brings together nine reports examining exactly that. Read the report: giswatch.org/2026-special...

Orange graphic with teal and navy hand-drawn illustrations around the edges, including a person walking in the upper right. A large pale cream rounded rectangle contains text about the Global South FLOSS world being confined and under-resourced while also being a place where resistance, brilliance and diversity are forged. Below, bold dark-blue text identifies the source as the Preface by hvale vale and Valeria Betancourt of APC.

Dark navy graphic with orange and teal illustrated shapes across the top and a small illustrated person near the bottom right. A large light-grey rounded rectangle contains text arguing for the decolonisation of FLOSS and stronger identification with marginalised communities in the Global South. Bold white text below identifies Introduction: From the edges by Alan Finlay of APC.

Teal graphic with orange and dark-blue hand-drawn decorative shapes at the top and right edges and a small illustrated woman near the lower right. A large pale blue-grey rounded rectangle contains text explaining that FLOSS funding is not neutral and can reproduce North-South imbalances through decisions about projects, contributors and priorities. Below, bold dark-blue text identifies Funding FLOSS: Power, governance and the Global South by Tara Tarakiyee.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

This is one of 10 reports developed under the third cycle of the Feminist Internet Research Network (FIRN), deepening feminist intersectional analysis of technology-facilitated gender-based violence. 📖 Read the full reports: firn.genderit.org/research

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

09–10: Feminist forensic work moves beyond technical reports towards ongoing dialogue, contextual explanations and co-created safety plans. It also means caring for responders handling trauma-heavy cases through ongoing support and decompression structures.

Illustrated text reads the ninth and tenth feminist perspectives on care: 9. Communication with care- Forensic work does not end with a technical report; it culminates in how findings
are communicated. A main objective of a feminist support chain is to replace technical reports with ongoing dialogue – where findings are explained contextually, questions welcomed proactively and safety plans co-created.; 10. “Who watches the watch(wo)men?”
Care for caregivers’ support structures is vital for responders handling trauma-
heavy cases. Prolonged exposure to trauma narratives inevitably compromises facilitators’ mental and physical health. Maintaining the support chain requires more than training and knowledge updates – it involves creating systematic decompression mechanisms and ongoing care structures for internal teams. Below the text is a woman-presenting person with a headset and microphone, sitting in front of a laptop.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

07–08: Limit data collection to what is necessary, while ensuring the support chain has what it needs. Regular check-ins should update people on the analysis, allow next steps to be evaluated together and support collaborative decisions.

Illustrated text reads the seventh and eighth feminist perspectives on care: 7. Minimal data is good, but it must work - Limit data collection to what is necessary, but ensure the entire support chain has what it needs – with clear referrals for issues beyond a facilitator’s expertise.; 8.Transparency as protocol - It is important to conduct regular check-ins to update the person on the analysis progress, jointly evaluate next steps and collaborate on decisions if threats are confirmed. Below the text is the same first woman-presenting person on the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

05–06: Where possible and desired, individuals should be involved in investigation steps. Consent is not a checkbox but an ongoing conversation: it must be freely given, informed and unequivocal, and may be withdrawn at any time.

Illustrated text reads the fifth and sixth feminist perspectives on care: 5. Participatory process - Where possible and desired, involve individuals in investigation steps, such as device data extraction or creating a timeline of case-relevant events.; 6. Consent is not a checkbox; it is an ongoing conversation - Use signed forms where needed, but other consent mechanisms can be
developed. Consent must be freely given, informed and unequivocal, and may be
withdrawn at any time. Below the text is the same third woman-presenting person on the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

03–04: Explanations should be simple without being superficial, supporting informed participation. And because TFGBV often involves loss of control over personal data, the response must actively restore people’s autonomy and informed control over their information.

Illustrated text reads the third and fourth feminist perspectives on care: 3. Simple, not superficial - Offer straightforward and thorough explanations of analysis goals, limitations and possible outcomes – ensuring informed participation without oversimplifying complexities.; 4. Data autonomy and informed control - Clarify: What data is being analysed? By whom? Where and for how long is it stored? TFGBV often entails loss of autonomy and control over personal data. The response process must therefore actively restore the individual’s control of their information. Below the text is the same second woman-presenting person on the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

01–02: Feminist digital forensics is about living people, not just data. The needs of those seeking support guide the process. It also demystifies digital forensics through clear language about what it can and cannot achieve, its risks and real-world implications.

Illustrated text reads the first and second feminist perspectives on care: 1. From dead artefacts to living people - Traditional forensics relies on dead data (also known as artefacts) - feminist digital forensics is about living people. Those seeking support are our priority and their needs guide the process, even when they differ from what analysts or facilitators might recommend; 2. Clear language, not jargon - Demystify digital forensics by explaining it simply – what it can (and cannot) achieve, its risks and its real-world implications without technical obfuscation. Below the text is the same first woman-presenting person on the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

A feminist helplines care approach emphasises ongoing support: a collaborative process rather than a one-time service, rooted in autonomy and capacity-building. The research re-examines 10 key feminist perspectives on care that contribute to consensual digital forensics.

Illustrated text reads: A foundational and common concept in feminist helplines care approach is the ongoing support that is offered – also called acompañamiento in Spanish or acompanhamento in Portuguese. This terminology represents an ongoing collaborative process rather than a one-time service. Rooted in feminist principles, this approach emphasises autonomy and capacity-building for those seeking support. Below the text is the same second woman-presenting person on the cover slide.

Illustrated text reads: Importantly, the study concludes that feminist digital forensics can only exist within a feminist support cycle. This cycle begins at the first point of contact and extends far beyond evidence collection or legal case-building, actively pursuing pathways to holistic repair. As part of the research, they re-examine 10 key feminist perspectives on care that make a significant contribution to the development of consensual digital forensics. Below the text is a woman-presenting person with a headset and microphone, sitting in front of a laptop.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 04/09/2026

How can feminist perspectives on care contribute to the development of consensual digital forensics and the fight against technology-facilitated gender-based violence? This research by MariaLab, under FIRN’s third cycle, explores digital forensics for civil society, especially TFGBV cases.

Cover of a carousel promoting the research report title: Feminist digital forensics: A study and a proposal for development. The illustration shows three woman-presenting persons, with different skin colour and hair styles, standing side by side. The first person is wearing a headset with a microphone; the second person is holding a clipboard and wearing a safety helmet, and; the third person is standing confidently.

Illustrated text reads: This research report documents MariaLab’s incursion into the field of digital forensics and its applications for civil society, particularly in cases of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV). As a feminist hacker organisation, MariaLab aims to develop feminist helplines through the systemisation of information and the development of knowledge in digital forensics. Below the text is the same third woman-presenting person on the cover slide.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 02/09/2026

In 2026, GISWatch returns with two special editions. One, developed by APC and NGI0, will launch at #GlobalGathering and explore the open source we want from global South, feminist and human rights perspectives. Browse nearly two decades of reports: giswatch.org

Dark blue slide with abstract orange and teal illustrations and two large book covers in orange and purple. Text: “Two new special editions in 2026. This year, GISWatch returns with two special editions centring civil society perspectives, lived experience and social justice.”

Teal slide with orange and dark blue illustrations. Text: “One launches at the 2026 Team CommUNITY Global Gathering. Of this year’s two GISWatch special editions, one will be launched by APC and NGI0 at the Global Gathering. It explores the open source we want – from Global South, feminist and human rights perspectives. Explore GISWatch at giswatch.org.”

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 02/09/2026

GISWatch is more than a publication. It is a collaborative process that documents local realities, identifies common struggles and proposes practical action steps – turning evidence into advocacy and helping hold governments and international organisations accountable.

Dark blue slide with orange and teal illustrations. Text: “From evidence to advocacy. GISWatch reports document local realities, identify common struggles and propose practical action steps for policy advocacy, research, campaigning and solidarity. The goal: accountability. GISWatch helps hold governments and international organisations accountable for their commitments to an open, inclusive and sustainable information society.”

Orange slide titled “GISWatch through the years”, displaying covers of eight editions: the 2023–2024 WSIS+20 special edition; 2021–2022 on digital futures; 2020 on technology, the environment and sustainability; 2019 on artificial intelligence; 2018 on community networks; 2017 on national and regional Internet Governance Forum initiatives; the 2017 special issue on unshackling expression; and 2016 on economic, social and cultural rights and the internet.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 02/09/2026

#GISWatch is much more than a publication. For nearly two decades, it has brought together civil society organisations, activists, researchers and journalists – particularly from the global South – to examine how technology policies affect their societies.

Illustrated beige, orange and teal cover featuring past GISWatch publications and a person walking. Text: “What is GISWatch? A global civil society platform for monitoring the information society – and changing it.”

Beige slide with abstract orange and teal illustrations. Text: “More than a publication. GISWatch is a collaborative process that brings together civil society organisations, activists, researchers and journalists – particularly from the Global South. Together, they examine how information and communications policies affect their societies.”

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 31/08/2026

Across the gathering, APC and members of our network will host and join booths and circles on FLOSS, feminist research, AI ethics, secure convening, community-centred connectivity, community-governed technology and more.

Turquoise programme graphic for Friday, 4 September. The left column lists APC activities at Booth 3, including the NGI0 ecosystem, a GISWatch circle on Global South communities and FLOSS, community-centred connectivity, and a circle on operations as security infrastructure. The right column highlights APC network activities by Progressive Technology Project and May First Movement Technology, including the Rise Against Big Tech Coalition booth and a circle on collective alternatives to Big Tech.

Yellow programme graphic for Saturday, 5 September. APC activities at Booth 3 include local services for communities, collaborative software and equipment stacks, a discussion questioning the inevitability of AI, the Women’s Rights Programme and Feminist Internet Research Network ecosystem, and a circle on AI use and ethics in civil society organisations. APC network activities include sessions by SFLC.in, EngageMedia, Open Culture Foundation and Colnodo on digital rights, sustainable tech infrastructure, digital threats and community technology.

Magenta programme graphic for Sunday, 6 September. APC activities at Booth 3 include the NGI0 ecosystem, partnerships and alliances, building FLOSS in late-stage capitalism, and two “Celebrate good time come on” sessions. APC network activities include the Rise Against Big Tech Coalition by Progressive Technology Project and May First Movement Technology, and an EngageMedia session on moderation, maintenance, money and the care work behind community-governed technology.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 31/08/2026

More than 25 people from the APC community are heading to Estoril for the 2026 @teamcommunity.bsky.social Global Gathering, 4–6 September. 🌍 Three days of community-led exchange at the intersections of human rights, technology and social justice.

Magenta graphic headed “Why are we at the Global Gathering?” Text explains that the gathering brings together people working at the intersections of human rights, technology, social justice, civil society and journalism. APC and its network will create spaces around FLOSS, feminist research, AI ethics, secure convening, community-centred connectivity and community-governed technology. A note highlights that APC can be found throughout the gathering at Booth 3.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 29/08/2026

This report is one of the 10 reports developed under the third cycle of the Feminist Internet Research Network (FIRN). Read more about the other reports here: 📖 firn.genderit.org/research

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 29/08/2026

The repercussions of such violence are grave and multifaceted, affecting people’s safety, security and well-being. Yet communities and survivors resist through strategic visibility, confrontation, documentation and digital archiving, and community support networks.

The text appears against a plain background and reads: The repercussions of such violence are not abstract; they are grave and multifaceted. TFV severely affects participants’ safety, security and well-being. Additionally, the consequences intensify and become multilayered at the intersection of multiple marginalised identities, compounded by systemic discrimination that obstructs access to essential legal and healthcare support.

The text appears against the cover slide background and reads: Given the hurdles that prevent or hinder access to justice or well-being, community and grassroots support plays a pivotal role in responding to violence and meaningfully assisting survivors. In addition, survivors actively resist through strategies such as strategic visibility, confrontation, documentation and digital archiving and community support networks.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 29/08/2026

The same tactic has increasingly been applied to criminalise online content creators. Over the past five years, authorities have particularly targeted women from middle- and lower-middle-income backgrounds, invoking “family values” and “public morals” to justify arrests.

The text appears against the cover slide background and reads: This framing strategy is not limited to scapegoating refugees or queer individuals. The same tactic has been increasingly applied to criminalise online content creators. Over the past five years, authorities have particularly targeted women from middle- and lower-middle-income backgrounds. By invoking the rhetoric of family values and public morals, the state has justified the targeting and arrest
of hundreds of content creators.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 29/08/2026

The state strategically employs social manipulation and disinformation to construct moral and security panics, redirecting attention from political and economic challenges. By vilifying migrants and LGBTQI+ people as “threats”, it fuels public hostility and legitimises violence.

The text appears against the cover slide background and reads: Wafaa, a Sudanese woman who has lived in Egypt most of her life and provides psychosocial support for refugee women, described how the economic crisis has contributed to fuelling a rise in racial and gendered violence, both online and offline. She has consistently faced hostility and harassment because she is a dark-skinned Sudanese woman. Yet, the situation has worsened with the increasing number of Sudanese people seeking safety in Egypt because of the war. She recounted how digital platforms became breeding grounds for hate, with users blaming refugees, especially the Sudanese, for the economic decline.

The text appears against a plain background and reads: Together with other participants’ stories, Wafaa’s experience reveals how the state strategically employs social manipulation and disinformation to construct moral and security panics. This strategy serves to redirect public attention and evade accountability by shifting focus away from underlying economic and political challenges. By vilifying and criminalising groups such as migrants and LGBTQI+ people and framing them as “threats”, the state deliberately incites hatred, fuels public hostility and legitimises violence.

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Association for Progressive Communications (APC) @apc.org · 29/08/2026

Digital repression in Egypt works as an integrated ecosystem of control through multiple repressive mechanisms, including online censorship, cyber surveillance, manipulation and disinformation, and legal persecution, strengthening the state’s ability to monitor, intimidate and silence.

The text appears against the cover slide background and reads: Digital repression in Egypt involves multiple mechanisms deployed by both state and non-state actors, including online censorship, mass and targeted cyber surveillance, manipulation and disinformation, and legal persecution. Together, these repressive mechanisms form an integrated ecosystem of control that strengthens the regime’s capabilities for monitoring, intimidating and silencing anyone who challenges its narrative or the social order it strives to maintain.

The text appears against a plain background and reads: Participants' experiences with TFV, particularly social manipulation and disinformation, illustrated how the current political climate and economic deterioration in Egypt are deeply intertwined with existing oppressive systems, including racism, discriminatory legislation and patriarchal norms, and are further exacerbated by entrenched impunity.

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