The web portal https://civicdefenders.net is launched to promote digital and civic space and combat gender disinformation
A landmark initiative to protect digital and civic freedoms in Bangladesh was unveiled today with the launch of the web portal Civic Defenders of Bangladesh. Developed under the project “Collaborative Actions for Promoting Digital and Civic Space and Combating Gender Disinformation”, the portal is a joint effort by VOICE and The Daily Ittefaqand supported by the European Union, ARTICLE 19 and Free Press Unlimited.
Digital and civic space in Bangladesh is facing mounting challenges, including shrinking freedoms, digital repression, violence against journalists, gender-based disinformation, and persistent restrictions on freedom of expression. In response, Civic Defenders of Bangladesh was created to document violations, provide access to legal resources, and strengthen collective advocacy for freedom of expression, digital rights, journalist safety, and inclusive civic participation.
The portal addresses two critical gaps: the lack of consolidated documentation of digital and civic space (DCS) violations and gender disinformation (GD), and the limited access to basic legal information and support for victims. By serving as a comprehensive dashboard of verified cases, the platform offers resources for women, civil society organizations, activists, human rights defenders, researchers, journalists, youth, and marginalized communities.
More than just an archive, the platform is designed as a living, interactive space for advocacy, empowerment, and awareness. It guides victims toward practical support, connecting them with national helplines and leading legal aid organizations including Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), Bangladesh Legal Aid Services Trust (BLAST), ARTICLE 19, Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), and ManabadhikarShongskriti Foundation (MSF).
The launch ceremony, held today at the YWCA Conference Room in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, brought together media professionals, academics, human rights defenders, civil society representatives, women and the youth. The event featured a demonstration of the web portal by The Daily Ittefaq and a panel discussion exploring legal frameworks, feminist approaches, storytelling, development communication, and human rights activism.
Panelists praised the initiative as a timely contribution. Dr. Ananya Raihan, policy analyst, remarked: “To ensure better protection of victims of digital and civic space violations, Bangladesh needs legal reforms. A platform like this can complement the justice system as a supportive mechanism.”
Samina Yasmin, feminist activist, emphasized: “Feminist movements and women’s rights groups can use this portal to counter harmful gendered disinformation campaigns, advocate for safer digital spaces, and ensure inclusive civic participation.”
Tony Michael Gomez, development communication expert, noted: “This portal is both an advocacy and empowerment tool. If used effectively, it can help youth, grassroots communities, and marginalized groups resist disinformation and contribute to a stronger civic space.”
Dalia Chakma, Indigenous rights activist, highlighted: “One of the strongest features of this portal is the verified documentation of rights violations in civic spaces. Real-life case studies of gender disinformation and civic space violations can raise awareness and inspire both communities and policymakers to bring meaningful change.”
Speaking about the broader vision, Ahmed Swapan Mahmud, Executive Director of VOICEstated “The launch of Civic Defenders of Bangladesh is more than the introduction of a digital tool; it is the beginning of a broader movement to safeguard freedom of expression, combat gender disinformation, and empower marginalized voices. This platform is a living archive that will serve as a powerful resource for future researchers, activists, and advocates of democracy.”
To ensure sustainability, VOICE will continue monitoring and documenting new cases, while The Daily Ittefaq will provide ongoing technical and journalistic support. In addition, the portal will feature digital campaigns, expert podcasts, documentaries, and opinion pieces to foster long-term engagement.