Description

Laws, Justice and Rights for Women in the Modern Era
Editor: Prof. Dr. Yogesh Kumar Gupta, Ishan Ahmad and Premananda Murmu
Published by Universal Academic Books Publishers and Distributors,
New Delhi (India)
ISBN: 978-81-686113-5-1, 2026

Chapter 11

Women, Technology, and Digital Rights

Seema V.
The Oxford College of Engineering, Bengaluru, Karnataka

Abstract

The digital revolution has democratized information access globally, yet it has simultaneously replicated and amplified structural gender inequalities within the virtual sphere. This paper explores the critical intersection of women, technology, and digital rights, examining how equal participation in the digital age is systematically hindered. Despite increased connectivity, women face distinct barriers to full digital citizenship, including the persistent gender digital divide, algorithmic biases that entrench patriarchal stereotypes, and the escalation of technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV). This study contextualizes digital rights as fundamental human rights, arguing that privacy, freedom of expression, and online safety are essential for women’s socio-economic empowerment. Through a critical analysis of current global digital policies and human rights frameworks, the research highlights how existing legal and corporate structures fail to adequately protect female users or promote substantive digital equality. Ultimately, this paper calls for a paradigm shift toward feminist technology design and rights-based governance, advocating for inclusive policy frameworks, gender-sensitive algorithmic accountability, and robust legal protections to guarantee a safe, equitable, and empowering digital future for women.

Keywords

Digital Rights, Gender Digital Divide, Algorithmic Bias, Human Rights, Technology-Facilitated Violence.

1. INTRODUCTION

The rapid evolution of digital technology has transformed human society, opening up unprecedented avenues for education, political advocacy, and economic empowerment. However, this digital shift has also mirrored and amplified existing real-world gender inequalities. The intersection of women, technology, and digital rights highlights a crucial global mandate: access to technology is no longer merely a luxury or convenience, but a core component of basic human rights.

Despite global technological advancements, a significant gender digital divide persists. Millions fewer women than men have access to the internet or own a smartphone, particularly in developing regions. This structural exclusion limits women’s ability to participate in the digital economy, access remote learning, or utilize digital financial services.