CYBER NASILJE NAD ŽENAMA U REPUBLICI HRVATSKOJ
CYBER VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN IN THE REPUBLIC OF CROATIA

Summary/Abstract: Cyber violence against women in the Republic of Croatia is becoming an increasingly pronounced problem with the development of digital technologies and social networks. The introduction of digital technologies into everyday life enabled new ways of communication and connection, but at the same time opened up space for abuse and violence. Cyberbullying includes various forms of harassment, threats, blackmail and violation of privacy via the Internet, as well as withdrawing the victim from digital and social spaces, which reduces their visibility in public life and limits their professional and personal life. One of the most common forms of cyber violence in Croatia is online sexual harassment. This includes unwanted sexual messages, threats to publish intimate content, and revenge pornography. Such attacks often have serious consequences, including psychological stress, anxiety and depression, while some victims experience social stigmatization, job loss, shame and fear. In addition to sexual harassment, cyber stalking, doxing and others are becoming more and more common. Only in recent years has Croatia more seriously recognized cyber violence as a serious social problem with its laws. The penal code includes provisions that criminalize certain forms of digital violence, such as stalking and unauthorized recording, and distribution of content. Legal practice shows that sentences are lenient and processes are lengthy, which is why women do not decide to report violence. Institutions are not sufficiently educated or resourced to adequately address cyber violence. Civil society organizations in Croatia play an important role in raising awareness and providing support to victims of cyber violence. Certain organizations conduct campaigns, offer legal and psychological assistance, and advocate for better legislative measures. Despite this, the problem remains widespread, and many women still do not know how to protect themselves or whom to turn to for help. In order to reduce cyber violence against women, a systematic response is needed that includes stricter laws and faster prosecution of perpetrators, better education of institutions, and raising public awareness about cyber violence. A combination of these measures can ensure a safer digital environment for women and prevent further cyber violence.

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