On January 15, 2025, Janina Steinert, Angelina Voggenreiter and Luise Koch presented their study “Angegriffen & alleingelassen: Wie sich digitale Gewalt auf politisches Engagement auswirkt” at the Federal Press Conference House in Berlin. The study, conducted in collaboration with HateAid and funded by the Bavarian Research Institute for Digital Transformation (bidt), highlights that over half of politically active individuals surveyed have experienced online harassment, with women disproportionately affected. 

Digital violence not only impacts psychological well-being but also disrupts political engagement. The findings highlight that 66% of affected women reduced their social media use, and 22% considered leaving politics altogether due to online abuse. These dynamics underline the urgent need for systemic action from political parties, law enforcement, and social media platforms to support those targeted.

The findings emphasise the urgent need for systemic action to address the implications of digital violence for democracy and gender equality.

Read the full study here.

You can find more information on the project here.