FridayOL

As Tanzania gears up for upcoming elections, a disturbing trend is emerging: the potential for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to be weaponized in cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Experts and civil society groups are raising serious concerns about the misuse of technology to intimidate, harass, and silence women, particularly those participating in the political process. This poses a significant threat to both democratic principles and the safety and well-being of Tanzanian women.

The Rise of AI-Fueled GBV

The rapid advancement of AI and digital technologies has brought about incredible opportunities, but it has also opened new avenues for abuse. In the Tanzanian context, there are fears that AI could be used to create deepfakes, spread disinformation campaigns targeting female candidates, and monitor and track activists and journalists. These actions can have a chilling effect on freedom of expression and participation, especially for women who often face disproportionate levels of online harassment and threats.

“We’re seeing a worrying pattern where technology is being exploited to undermine women’s political ambitions,” explains Amina Mzige, a leading gender equality advocate in Tanzania. “The speed and scale at which AI can generate and disseminate harmful content makes it incredibly difficult to counter, and the psychological impact on victims can be devastating.”

Specific Concerns Ahead of the Elections

Several specific concerns have been highlighted:

• Deepfakes: The creation of fabricated videos or audio recordings depicting female candidates saying or doing things they never did, designed to damage their reputation and credibility.
• Disinformation Campaigns: The spread of false or misleading information through social media and messaging apps, often aimed at discrediting female candidates or discouraging women from voting.
• Online Harassment and Trolling: Coordinated attacks on female politicians and activists through social media platforms, including threats of violence, sexual harassment, and personal attacks.
• Surveillance and Tracking: The use of AI-powered tools to monitor the online activity of female candidates and activists, potentially chilling their freedom of expression and assembly.

The Impact on Democracy

The potential for AI-fueled GBV to undermine democratic processes is a serious concern. When women are targeted with online abuse and intimidation, they are less likely to participate in politics, leading to a less diverse and representative government. This can also discourage other women from entering the political arena, perpetuating gender inequality and hindering progress towards a more inclusive society.

What Needs to Be Done?

Addressing this challenge requires a multi-faceted approach:

• Increased Awareness: Raising public awareness about the risks of AI-fueled GBV and the importance of online safety.
• Stronger Legal Frameworks: Enacting and enforcing laws that criminalize online harassment, cyberbullying, and the creation and dissemination of deepfakes.
• Tech Company Responsibility: Holding social media platforms and tech companies accountable for the content hosted on their platforms and requiring them to take proactive steps to prevent the spread of harmful content.
• Support for Victims: Providing support services for victims of online abuse, including counseling, legal assistance, and safety training.
• Media Literacy Programs: Equipping citizens with the skills to critically evaluate online information and identify disinformation.

Conclusion

As Tanzania prepares for its upcoming elections, it is crucial to address the growing threat of AI-fueled GBV. By taking proactive steps to protect women's voices and ensure a safe and inclusive online environment, Tanzania can safeguard its democratic principles and promote a more equitable society for all. Failure to do so risks silencing a vital segment of the population and undermining the integrity of the electoral process.