Opportunities and risks in the digital world for marginalised groups

Combating and resolutely countering hatred, violence and disinformation online leads to more peaceful coexistence in our society.

This shared conviction has given rise to a small joint project between the Digital Opportunities Foundation and the Sudanese NGO Hopes & Action Foundation. The project, entitled ‘Opportunities & Risks in the Digital World for Marginalised Groups’, thrives on the exchange of expertise and knowledge between the two organisations. 

Hate speech and disinformation are global problems that do not stop at national borders. Based on research by the Hopes & Actions Foundation on combating gender-based online violence and hate speech in Sudan's digital space, training and education needs are identified and materials such as checklists, training courses, etc. from the Digital Opportunities Foundation are reviewed. Through topic-specific online sessions on disinformation and hate speech, the foundation shares its expertise and provides Hopes & Action with resources (expertise, guidelines, checklists, tools, etc.) for transfer to Sudan and further development. In a joint, intercultural review, the resources are examined to determine the extent to which they can actually be used in Sudan. 

Both organisations place a special focus on the protection of children and young people. They derive their mission from the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Taking into account General Comment No. 25, the Digital Opportunities Foundation and Hopes & Action Foundation are examining how children's rights can be implemented in a digitalising society while maintaining the balance between protecting children and young people and empowering them to pursue their interests. The findings will be used to produce a short guide for Sudanese parents.