Cayman Islands Marks 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence with a Call to End Digital Abuse

The Gender Affairs Unit within the Ministry of Social Development & Innovation (MSDI), in partnership with the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS), and the Family Resource Centre (FRC), has launched the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed from 25 November to 10 December. The campaign begins on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a global call to end all forms of violence against women and girls. As such, we encourage everyone to wear orange on December 10 as we stand together for a world free of violence.

This year’s theme — “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls” — highlights the growing threat of online harassment, stalking, non-consensual image sharing, impersonation, and other forms of technology-facilitated violence that disproportionately affect women and girls. As Cayman becomes more digitally connected, MSDI is advancing island wide efforts to ensure online spaces are safe for everyone. This includes strengthening cybersecurity within Government systems, improving educational outreach on safe digital practices, and preparing for the rollout of new legislation.

The Anti-Sexual Harassment Bill, once enacted, will provide clearer protections against sexual harassment — including digital harassment — and strengthen avenues for reporting and accountability. The Gender Affairs Unit will lead a public education campaign to ensure that individuals, families, businesses, and organisations understand their rights and obligations under the law.

Quote from Hon. Minister Isaac Rankine

Minister for Social Development & Innovation, and Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage: “Violence has no place in our homes, our schools, our workplaces, or our digital spaces. As a father and as Minister, I am deeply committed to ensuring that our women and girls can live, learn, and connect safely — both in person and online. Digital abuse is real, and its impact can be devastating. Through strengthened cybersecurity efforts, upcoming legislation, and partnership with RCIPS, we are taking firm steps to protect our people and hold offenders accountable. Ending violence is a shared responsibility, and during these 16 days we stand united to say: enough is enough.”

Public Awareness Focus Areas

(Nov 25 – Dec 10) Throughout the 16-day period, MSDI, RCIPS and FRC will share information to help the public understand:

• What constitutes digital abuse
• The signs of coercive online behavior
• How to report digital abuse
• How the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act will strengthen protections
• Cybersecurity practices for youth, parents, and vulnerable groups
• Available support services

Additionally, the Family Resource Centre’s signature Clothesline Project invites survivors and those who stand with them, to design T-shirts that give voice to their experiences. These shirts, displayed across the Islands during the 16 Days of Activism, serve as a powerful reminder of the lives impacted by violence in our homes and communities.

Quote from RCIPS Leadership - Assistant Commissioner Rob Atkin, MBE.

“Digital abuse is a crime. Acts such as online stalking, threats, “ex/revenge pornography”, harassment, and the misuse of personal images or information can lead to serious legal consequences. RCIPS is working closely with partners to improve awareness, reporting pathways, and investigations related to technology-facilitated offences. We encourage anyone experiencing digital abuse to come forward. We are here to help.”

Coming on the heels of National Child Safeguarding Week, this campaign strengthens the government’s continued commitment to safety, both online and offline, and forms part of the Ministry’s broader mission to strengthen social development, improve safety, and help ensure that Cayman’s digital future is built on trust, protection, and respect.