Muslim Women Network

Online Harms White Paper Consultation (Home Office / DCMS)

July 2019


The Online Harms White Paper set out the government's plans for a world-leading package of online safety measures including establishing in law a new duty of care towards users to be overseen by an independent regulator and holding companies to account for tackling a comprehensive set of online harms, ranging from illegal activity and content to behaviours which are harmful but not necessarily illegal. Muslim Women's Network UK (MWNUK) responded to this government consultation by the Home Office and DCMS, which closed on 1 July 2019. Some of our points included highlighting: Disinformation and misinformation that results in abuse and maintaining of misogynistic and patriarchal agendas which are harmful Merits of having a 'super complaints' process which also includes civil society organisations to be designated bodies Lack of understanding by police as to what constitutes harassment and stalking That although the White Paper mentions that cyber-bullying is higher for women, religious minorities, ethnic minorities, LGBT+ and disabled individuals, it lacks details about their experiences. As an example, we highlighted how revenge porn images online can also additionally result in honour based violence for BAME women and girls. The full report can be downloaded above.

Help us to improve social justice and equality for women and girls

Our Supporters

Caroline Nokes MP

Conservative Party

Muslim Women's Network UK ensures that the voices of Muslim women are heard. They are not just a support network but a movement for change. I am proud to work with them.

Jess Phillips MP

Labour Party

MWNUK is courageous because of the uncompromising and fearless positions it sometimes takes when calling out injustice and inequality

Sadiq khan

London Mayor

I am proud to support and champion this fantastic organisation, which is informing policy and transforming lives.

Baroness Sayeeda Warsi

Conservative Party

MWNUK’s authenticity comes from knowledge of lived experiences of Muslim women and girls acquired through their helpline, research and members.

Naz Shah MP

Labour Party

They work tirelessly with passion and commitment to make a difference and improve outcomes for some of the most vulnerable women and girls in society.