As part of the “She Leads” program implemented by the Arab Renaissance for Democracy and Development (ARDD), the Egyptian Female Lawyers Foundation for Women’s Rights, in cooperation with the Housing Committee of Agouza District, organized an awareness session addressing the dangers of harassment and online blackmail against women and girls. The event, held at the Ard El Lewa Youth Center in Giza, brought together 30 women and girls from the local community.
The session was designed based on an advocacy plan developed by participants in the She Leads program. It aimed to raise awareness of the increasing threats of child harassment and cyber extortion, provide preventive measures, and promote safe internet practices. The event also served as a platform for discussing legal protections and reporting mechanisms available under Egyptian law.
Heba Adel, cassation lawyer and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Egyptian Female Lawyers Foundation, opened the session with an overview of the She Leads program and its objectives in empowering young women. She highlighted several community initiatives developed through the program and elaborated on the legal dimensions of harassment and the importance of accessible reporting channels.
Program participants Rehab Ehab and Nora Adel led a discussion on the various forms and symptoms of harassment, offering practical strategies for prevention and intervention. They also provided a detailed explanation of online blackmail and its link to digital harassment.
Wissam Ibrahim, a lawyer at the Giza branch of the National Council for Women, discussed legal procedures and judicial avenues for addressing harassment cases. She stressed the importance of ensuring legal support for survivors.
Rita Naguib, a member of the National Council for Women and the Agouza Housing Committee, highlighted the need for inclusive awareness efforts, particularly the integration of persons with disabilities in anti-harassment initiatives. She also introduced key services provided by the National Council for Women and the National Council for Disability Affairs, including guidance on obtaining integrated service cards for individuals with disabilities.
Participants concluded the session by calling for continued support for women and girls across Giza and the expansion of community-led initiatives to combat harassment and cyber threats. They emphasized the importance of making reliable information and support services readily available.
The She Leads program seeks to promote gender justice and equal representation in decision-making through targeted capacity-building efforts. These include enhancing access to education, skill development, political participation, advocacy, and meaningful engagement, while adopting a collaborative and inclusive approach at both regional and international levels.
