“Even though we have historically high female representation in the Norwegian Parliament, and women occupy some of the most important political positions in this country, there is still some way to go,” said Ms Sem-Jacobsen in her conference speech.

Must fight sexual harassment

She pointed out that there is an indisputable link between sexual harassment online and in the real world.

“This has prevented women from taking part in the public debate and from taking on leadership positions. There is a direct link between online abuse and democratic involvement. It requires a coordinated international effort to combat gender-based digital violence,” Åslaug Sem-Jacobsen said in her statement.

Read more about the Women Political Leaders Summit 2021

Read Åslaug Sem-Jacobsen's conference speech here (pdf)