Recognize, Resist, Rise Up: Tackling Gender-Based Violence against Women in Politics Comparative Report
We bring you key findings from a comparative report on violence against women in politics (VAWP) in EU countries participating in the 3R project: Recognize, Resist, React.
Key findings and gaps in data in Slovakia
In Slovakia, there is still a lack of systematic data on violence against women in politics. Studies confirm that women are often attacked for their values, especially for democracy, pro-European values, human rights, equality, and inclusion.
Studies on violence and hate speech on social media have confirmed that women are targeted more often than men. Common accusations against female politicians include treason, media manipulation, corruption, and moral failings. The intensity and extent of the violence led, for example, President Zuzana Čaputová to decide not to run for re-election, highlighting the serious consequences of VAWP on women’s representation. In the case of MP Lucia Plaváková, the intersectional nature of VAWP, which combines misogyny, homophobia, and transphobia, was highlighted.
Parliament lacks institutional mechanisms to combat VAWP, report it, and investigate it. Currently, there is no adopted code of conduct for members of parliament. Only one political party has a code of conduct that addresses harassment, discrimination, and sexual harassment. Existing studies lack a gender perspective.
International comparison: Dominant forms of violence in the Czech Republic, Ireland, and Germany
Although the context is specific to each country, similar forms of violence dominate in the countries studied, especially in the online space.
Czech Republic: In the Czech Republic, the dominant form is psychological violence, which has been experienced by up to 81% of respondents. The primary environment for hate speech is online, with the most common forms being threats (61%) and verbal attacks (56%). Younger female politicians (under 40) experience violence to a greater extent.
Ireland: In Ireland, the dominant form is online violence and degrading comments. Local female MPs receive up to eight times more offensive tweets per follower than their male colleagues. Women are 2.3 times more likely to be exposed to degrading language and lies.
Germany: In Germany, the dominant form is psychological violence, both online and offline. Women in politics experience more gender-based discrimination, sexism, misogyny, sexualized comments, and threats (including threats against family members). In 2021, 64% of female MPs surveyed received misogynistic threats.
