26 October 2026, Pakistan: The Network of Women Journalists for Digital Rights condemn the participation of fellow journalists, both men and women, in ridiculing, insulting, and undermining women colleagues. These attacks often leave the journalist unnamed while using unmistakable references to identify her to their audiences. Omitting a name does not remove responsibility when the target is clear.

Of particular concern is the practice of quote-tweeting trolls and abusive accounts, including those colleagues have blocked because of their history of harassment. Adding sarcasm or insinuation while reproducing an abusive post gives that abuse a wider audience and renewed visibility. It also circumvents the boundaries women have established to protect themselves. Such posts can function as dog whistles, signalling whom to target while allowing those amplifying them to deny responsibility.

The original words may belong to someone else, but the decision to circulate misogynistic abuse, religious insinuations, or hate speech carries its own responsibility. Journalists must recognise how their participation can fuel online harassment and targeted trolling of women colleagues.

Dismissing women’s experiences as playing the “woman card,” policing their clothing, and making sweeping insinuations about their professional integrity reinforce the prejudices used to silence women. This conduct is no less harmful when it comes from another woman.

We are not naming individual journalists........

© Naya Daur