CaFFE contribute to International Women’s day by enlightening females in the North on how to stay safe online 

Text and pictures by PRIYAN DE SILVA 

The Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) which has been entrusted by the Carter Centre USA to enlighten aspirant female political leaders in Sri Lanka on digital hygiene and digital security to help them counter technology-based violence which has emerged as a serious threat, commenced their Northern province programme on International Women’s Day, 08 March, with the participation of 35 aspiring female political leaders.

During the three0day residential training programme, based on the contents of the  training modules prepared by Dr. Gabrielle Bardall (Digital Hygiene) of the Carter Centre, and Dr. N.C. Rasmin (Digital Security),  the participants were equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate digital spaces safely,

Executive Director of CaFFE, Manaz Makeen, said that in addition to this initiative, CaFFE has previously conducted media literacy training programmes, specifically designed to enhance the capacity of women in local politics, ensuring they can effectively engage in the digital sphere while safeguarding themselves from online threats.

He pointed out that by focusing on digital security, digital hygiene, and media literacy, CaFFE aims to empower women political leaders and activists with the tools needed to counter online harassment, disinformation, and cyber threats, ultimately fostering a safer and more inclusive digital environment.

Makeen said that over 150 female political leaders were benefiting by this programme. He said that prior to the 2024 parliamentary election, CaFFE had conducted a training session for over 30 female Members of Parliament and contestants, in addition to this training sessions held in the Southern and Sabaragamuwa provinces.  He added that the final programme will be conducted in the Eastern province within the week.

Associate Director of the Carter Centre USA, Mrs. Sairah Zaidi, Carter Centre’s Country Manager in Sri Lanka and Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies (IRES) Manjula Gajanayake, and Executive Director of CaFFE, Manas Makeen, attended the event in Jaffna.