On the 8th of March, 2023, and to mark the International Women Day for this year, the United Nations Population Fund for Gulf Co-operation Council Countries (UNFPA GCC) held a panel discussion at Sultan Qaboos University in Muscat, with the Ministry of Social Development of Oman (MoSD). The interactive discussion which was attended by several panelists including Ms. Wadha bint Salim al Alawiyah, Director of Women's Affairs and Ms. Maithaa Al Rakishia, the Assistant Public Prosecutor, addressed critical subjects including the women empowering legal frameworks in Oman and the legal provisions that ensure social protection. The panelists and attendants also discussed the theme of the International Day this year, and highlighted the importance of the legal safeguarding mechanisms to protect women from cyber bullying and digital threats.

The event which was attended by more than 50 young women and men was an opportunity to launch a dialogue on the impact of COVID-19 on the psychological health of women due to their further exposure to social media and potential digital threats. They have also discussed the importance of having robust legal mechanisms to combat cyber crimes.