Equbusiness book VERSION 28SEPT2023 - Flipbook - Page 53
Public scrutiny has become a significant challenge for NGOs in their gender equality initiatives (Nasir and Halim,
2022). Since more people become aware of gender-related issues and inequalities, they also expect greater
transparency and accountability from NGOs. Social media and the rapid dissemination of information have
amplified public scrutiny, making it vital for NGOs to maintain consistency in their efforts and respond effectively
to criticism or allegations. Innovation and technological change are profoundly transforming and redefining life
in the 21st century. Technological progress is enabling unprecedented advances capable of improving social,
economic, and political outcomes for all. NGOs that intend to enter along the path of development have to act
in such a way that everyone actively participates in their projects and gets involved to concretize them effectively
and conscientiously. Digital activism and the power of movements such as #MeToo undoubtedly demonstrate
the influence of collective digital action to drive change (Hibbs, 2022). However, social media has also fostered
gender misinformation, misinformation, online violence, and sexist hate speech directed at women and LGTBQ+
people, human rights defenders, politicians, and journalists around the world, and there is growing concern that
emerging AI technology can be used to promote these intolerable trends.
This section explores the impact of public scrutiny on the work of gender equality-focused NGOs and offers
insights into strategies to handle it. On one hand, heightened awareness and public scrutiny can generate
support, raise funds, and mobilize grassroots movements, increasing the potential for meaningful change. On
the other hand, it places NGOs under a magnifying glass, subjecting their actions, decisions, and even their
internal workings to intense scrutiny. The impact of this scrutiny on NGOs engaged in gender equality work can
be profound and multifaceted. Public scrutiny demands a high level of accountability and transparency from
NGOs. Any inconsistencies or shortcomings in their gender equality initiatives can quickly be exposed and
criticized. NGOs need to establish robust reporting mechanisms, clear metrics for success, and transparent
communication channels to address public concerns and maintain their credibility (Nasir and Halim, 2022). NGOs
under public scrutiny often face the pressure to deliver tangible results as stakeholders and the public may expect
quick and measurable progress, sometimes overlooking the complexities of the issues at hand. This can create
challenges for NGOs working on long-term systemic change, as such change often requires sustained efforts over
extended periods.
Gender equality advocacy frequently involves addressing sensitive and controversial issues (Srivastava and
Austin, 2016). Public scrutiny can lead to polarized opinions, criticism, or even backlash. NGOs must be prepared
to navigate these challenges, staying true to their mission while addressing public concerns diplomatically. Public
perception plays a critical role in the success of gender equality initiatives; therefore NGOs need to manage their
reputation and brand image carefully. Negative publicity or controversies can undermine their efforts and erode
public trust (Srivastava and Austin, 2016). Strategies for crisis management and reputation repair become
essential in such situations. NGOs must strike a balance between incorporating public feedback and maintaining
their core principles. While input from stakeholders and the public is crucial, it should not compromise the
organization's mission or dilute its commitment to gender equality.
