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BBYDI Attends AI Summit In Paris, Unveils Project To Combat Online Gender-Based Violence
Among the five projects selected this year was ‘HerSafeSpace’, a project developed by BBYDI.
Paris, France – The Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) joined world leaders, international organisations, civil society representatives, and AI experts in Paris for the Global AI Action Summit, held from February 10 to 11, 2025.
Hosted by the French government at the Grand Palais, the summit was co-chaired by French President Emmanuel and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The event aimed to establish scientific foundations, develop sustainable AI solutions, and set global standards for AI that serve the public interest.
BBYDI was represented by its Global Director, Abideen Olasupo, and Programme Specialist for Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Taibat Hussain.
They participated in various sessions, including the “Laboratory for Women’s Rights Online”, a side event hosted by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Launched in 2024, the Laboratory for Women’s Rights Online is a multi-stakeholder platform dedicated to identifying, preventing, and combating online gender-based violence (GBV), including AI-generated abuse.
The initiative also provides funding and logistical support for transnational projects tackling technology-facilitated GBV (TFGBV).
During the summit, BBYDI unveiled its new project focused on combating online GBV, aligning with global efforts to address digital threats to women’s rights.
The organsation aims to leverage AI-driven solutions to enhance online safety and support victims of TFGBV.
Among the five projects selected this year was ‘HerSafeSpace’, a project developed by BBYDI. Presenting the project before members of the Board of the Laboratory during the side event, Olasupo described HerSafeSpace as an AI-powered chatbot designed to combat online gender violence in West Africa.
“This AI-driven tool will provide real-time support for women and girls facing online violence, educate them on their digital rights and safety measures, and collect and analyse data to inform policy and future interventions,” he stated.
Also speaking, Taibat Hussain, who explained that the design of the AI chatbot was guided by UNESCO’s AI ethics recommendations, emphasised the project’s goal of increasing awareness about online gender-based violence and ensuring a safer digital environment for women and girls.
“As part of this initiative, we will conduct digital safety education for women and girls and engage in data-driven advocacy and local partnerships to ensure sustainable impact,” she added.
Hussain appreciated the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs for supporting the HerSafeSpace project, noting that “online gender-based violence is a growing pandemic that requires urgent and collaborative action to combat.”
Shortly after the presentation, the BBYDI global director, in a chat with newsmen, emphasised the need for critical stakeholders, including governments, tech companies, civil society, and international organisations, to continue to collaborate in ensuring that AI remains open, inclusive, and safe.
Olasupo stressed that as AI continues to evolve, it is essential to develop frameworks and policies that prioritise ethical considerations, transparency, and accountability.
He also called for greater support for AI innovations that safeguard people and promote sustainable development.
