Online harassment is an issue for girls and young women across the globe. If they are Black, disabled, or identify as LGBTIQ+, it gets worse. Girls face even more abuse if they state their opinions and speak out politically online.
This International Day of the Girl, influencers from across the world have shared their experiences of harassment on social media, how they manage it, and what must be done to end it so girls are #FreeToBeOnline.
Clauvid Daly, 19, was Miss Dominican Republic and a Miss Universe finalist in 2019. @clauviddaly
"As a public figure, it is common to be exposed to all types of harassment. Problems occur when a line is crossed, and you get death threats and indecent proposals. You don’t have to be in the public eye to get harassed though. It happens to everyone using social media networks.
"For me the harassment and violence intensified as I represented my country in international competitions. Negative, racist comments and death threats affected my emotional health and when it all got too much, I sought support from my parents and I started therapy.
"All social networking sites could do more. Power-holders must sanction accounts when users engage in inappropriate behaviour. Sanctions could include blocking your account for a limited time and permanently removing your login. It depends on the seriousness of the offence. In extreme cases, punishment should carry the weight of the law."
Charlotte Weise is a German influencer interested in fashion, natural cosmetics, vegan nutrition, self-love and positive thinking. @charlotte_weise
"I am often told that I am a “chubby woman” or that I am living with my father, even though it is my fiancé who is 14 years older than me.
"Recently someone re-cut my dance videos and uploaded them to a porn website, and I felt completely powerless at first. It took me a few days to think about what I could do about it and then I found a way to report it and it was deleted five minutes later. We should always refuse to accept something like this happening and try to find a way to fight back!
"I definitely think the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an increase of harassment and bullying online in the past months. People seem to have accumulated a lot of stress and fear and there has been a lot more criticism than usual.
"I do believe that a lot more should be done at school in order to prepare and protect young people in particular from the crazy online world.
"Girls, always tell someone about your experiences and never keep it to yourself. Talk to your mother, your teacher or another person of trust. You're not alone! This happens to a lot of people and you can do something about it!"