Catalan Councilwoman Denounces Wave of Sexist Online Abuse

Lakshmi Roset, a councilwoman for the CUP party in Moià, has publicly denounced the torrent of sexist comments she has encountered. Roset expressed her dismay over the online abuse, stating that it is not an isolated incident affecting only her but a broader problem faced by many women in the public sphere.

She lamented that this constant barrage of misogynistic remarks creates a chilling effect, making women feel conditioned and hesitant to express themselves or participate actively on social media. This environment, she argues, can discourage women from entering or remaining in politics, as they feel they must constantly brace for personal attacks rather than engaging in substantive political discourse.

Roset's statement brings attention to the significant challenges women in politics navigate, particularly concerning online harassment. Her experience highlights a systemic issue where gender-based abuse can stifle women's voices and participation in democratic processes, forcing them to weigh the personal cost of public engagement.

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many women feel conditioned to expose themselves on social media