The Spanish government has launched an institutional campaign titled 'The role you don't choose' to raise awareness about digital violence against women, particularly focusing on the issue of sexual deepfakes. This initiative was presented by the Minister of Equality, Ana Redondo, and the Government Delegate against Gender Violence, Carmen Martínez Perza, in anticipation of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which is observed on 25 November.
The campaign aims to enhance public perception of the risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and new technologies in the proliferation of digital violence against women. Starring actress Anna Castillo, the campaign specifically addresses the creation of sexual deepfakes—content generated by AI algorithms that can replicate a person's face, voice, or gestures. This type of content has become a common form of digital violence, particularly against women, allowing for the creation of false sexual images without their knowledge or consent.
During the campaign launch, Redondo referenced data from UN Women, revealing that 98% of fake videos online are based on non-consensual pornographic images, often referred to as ultra-fake nudes, with nearly all victims being women. 'The role you don't choose' will officially launch on Sunday, 15 November, with the goal of condemning the use of women's and girls' images in a sexual context through AI.
Redondo stressed the severity of the issue, stating, 'The gravity is enormous,' and highlighted the gender bias inherent in these deepfakes, asserting, 'This is not a joke; we are talking about violence, misogynistic violence.'
Martínez Perza added that behind every digital aggression lies a woman whose dignity has been violated. 'Deepfakes force women to be protagonists in a narrative they do not choose, which is why we cannot look the other way. Nearly 1.9 million women have experienced digital sexual harassment. The shame should never fall on them, but on those who have manipulated their images without consent,' she stated.
