Violence against women in politics as an erosion of democracy

Resumen

This article examines violence against women in politics (VAWP) as a significant form of democratic erosion, focusing particularly on the role of gendered disinformation and digital harassment in undermining women’s political participation. It argues that democracy cannot be fully realized while women continue to face systemic exclusion, intimidation, and attacks designed to silence their participation in public life. Drawing on recent scholarship and contemporary examples from Spain—including cases involving Irene Montero, Rita Maestre, and Isabel Díaz Ayuso—the study analyzes how sexist disinformation, sexualization, fake images, and online harassment are used to undermine women’s credibility and discourage their political engagement. The article also considers the role of social media platforms and emerging technologies such as deepfakes in amplifying these attacks. Ultimately, it argues that combating violence and disinformation against women is essential for protecting democratic institutions, ensuring equal political representation, and strengthening inclusive citizenship.