Benin sextortion victims fear judgment
Women and girls make up 69% of sextortion victims in Benin, facing shame and fear of exposure.
Sextortion, where intimate images are used for blackmail, is a hidden crime in Benin. Victims like Houéfa, who was threatened with shared videos in 2016, suffer in silence due to fear of judgment and lack of knowledge about available help. Organizations are now working on prevention and support for those affected by this digital violence.
The Centre national d’investigations numériques (CNIN) reported that 69% of sextortion victims in Benin are women and girls, according to Matin Libre on February 20, 2026. Sociologist Dr. MONTCHO Bruno emphasizes that prevention campaigns must address the social, economic, and digital realities of victims to combat the shame and vulnerability that prevent them from seeking assistance.
Civil society organizations are actively involved in preventing and supporting individuals facing sextortion. The executive director of the NGO FND, Mr. [Name not provided in packet], is among those working on the ground. Despite legal frameworks allowing prosecution, strengthening victim protection remains a key challenge for Benin.
Why it mattersVictims of sextortion in Benin, particularly women and girls, face significant psychological distress and social stigma, hindering their ability to seek help.