Digital instruments empower women to break barriers

Since the digital economy has become a major force driving global economic and social development, it is imperative that women be empowered to play a bigger role in the country's development.

As a global leader in the digital economy, China has made remarkable achievements in technological innovation and application. It has been exploring and using digital technology to promote gender equality and protect women's rights, creating more development opportunities for women and contributing Chinese wisdom and strength to the global human rights cause.

China has always followed a people-centered development philosophy, and regards the protection of women's rights as an integral part of human rights. In this digital age, China has been empowering women through policy guidance, and by promoting technological innovation and social coordination. By taking measures to promote gender equality in fields such as the economy, education, healthcare and political participation, China is fulfilling its responsibilities as a major country.

Amid the booming digital economy, Chinese women are participating in economic and social development on an unprecedented scale. Digital technology provides more entrepreneurial and employment opportunities for women, particularly in the platform and digital economies. By opening online stores and engaging in livestreaming, women are not only achieving economic independence but also driving local development.

The government and social organizations have been collaborating to provide digital skills training for women. These measures have not only helped many women emerge out of poverty and realize their self-worth but also injected new momentum into socioeconomic development.

Besides, the widespread adoption of digital financial technology is providing more support for women entrepreneurs, and financial technology companies are offering customized financial services to women owners of small and micro businesses through big data and artificial intelligence. This is not only improving the economic status of women but also promoting rural vitalization and common prosperity.

Education is a cornerstone of gender equality. In this regard, digital technology has broken the geographical barriers for women, especially those women living in rural and remote areas, by enabling more women and girls to access high-quality education resources. Thanks to policy support and other incentives, an increasing number of women are joining the high-tech industry and becoming an important force driving innovation-led development.

Digital technology is also being used to improve women's digital literacy and professional skills, making it easier for them to find employment or start a business, thus narrowing the gender gap in the science and technology, and digital fields. Digital technology is also playing a significant role in promoting women's health. In rural areas, telemedicine is enabling women to access professional medical services more conveniently, helping them take better care of their health.

Moreover, China has developed various digital technology tools and applications to combat gender-based violence. Through big data analysis and AI, domestic violence incidents can be detected and intervened in almost immediately, providing essential safeguards for women.

The rapid development of digital technology has also opened new channels for women to participate in public life and political decision-making. China encourages women to engage in community governance and public policy discussions through e-government and social media platforms, offering more opportunities for women to voice their opinions and concerns.

Digital technology has become an essential tool for implementing gender equality policies. Online dissemination of the Anti-Domestic Violence Law and the Law on the Protection of Women's Rights and Interests has improved public awareness of women's rights. And social media platforms, as a vital channel for women to express their views and advocate for social progress, are enabling more and more women to participate in social discussions, and call for gender equality and improvement in relevant policies.

Digital platforms are also highlighting women's mutual assistance and public welfare programs. Many women are organizing public welfare activities with the help of online communities, providing support and legal aid for women and girls in need. This mutual assistance model, supported by digital technology, has strengthened the social cohesion among women's groups and contributed to the construction of a harmonious society.

China's efforts to better protect women's rights reflect its respect for and commitment to upholding human rights. The practice of encouraging women to participate in public affairs using digital technology has not only increased women's political engagement but also become a global model for women's empowerment.

The measures to empower women in the digital age show that digital technology is not only a driver of economic development but also a tool for promoting gender equality. China will continue to use digital technology to empower women and explore more innovative models. Only by ensuring that women participate and benefit equally in public affairs can we truly achieve the goals of sustainable development and building of a more inclusive and equal society.

The author is a professor with the Law School of Renmin University of China.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

If you have a specific expertise, or would like to share your thought about our stories, then send us your writings at opinion@chinadaily.com.cn, and comment@chinadaily.com.cn.