Mothers’ Union at 150: Protecting Women and Girls in a Digital Age

Ashtead Mothers’ Union (MU) branch is but a drop in the ocean compared to MU Worldwide. In 2026, MU Worldwide will celebrate 150 years since its foundation in the small parish church of Old Alresford, Hampshire, by Mary Sumner, a young vicar’s wife with a bold vision. From that single spark of an idea, a global movement was born – and Mothers’ Union has grown to 4 million members across 84 countries. At the heart of all we do is our belief that faith and compassion can transform lives.

In this, our 150th anniversary year, we will celebrate the past, connect in the present, and shape the future. We will continue working to improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities around the world. At the heart of everything we do will remain our unwavering belief that faith and compassion can transform lives. We’re passionate about social justice, prayer and community outreach.

Every year, Mothers’ Union supports the United Nations’ “16 Days of Activism” campaign, joining with over 6000 organisations in over 185 countries. In 2025, one focus was digital violence under the banner: Across generations, across screens: uniting to end digital violence

Technology enables us to be connected, linking international families and friends across the world and making information and media more accessible than before. Yet with all the benefits technology provides, there are issues that are often overlooked. One of these is digital violence, particularly as it relates to gender-based violence. Mothers’ Union helped to raise awareness and advocate for the elimination of digital violence, emphasising the growing issue in all its forms, from online harassment and cyberstalking to non-consensual sharing of images, digital surveillance, and targeted abuse on social media. As access to technology grows, so too does the potential for its misuse. 

At Mothers’ Union, we stand united with women and girls everywhere who face harm, harassment or exclusion in digital spaces, especially where gender-based violence is involved. Whether online or offline, every woman and girl deserves to feel safe, valued and protected. 

In many parts of the world where Mothers’ Union works, access to technology remains limited, especially for women. Mobile phones, computers and internet access may be seen as luxuries, or simply unavailable due to cost, geography or cultural barriers. This lack of access deepens inequality. When women are excluded from the digital world, they miss opportunities for education, employment, advocacy and connection. And when they do gain access, many find themselves unprepared for the risks that come with life online. Digital safety requires both access and understanding.  

Digital technology helps us to connect across generations, but it also highlights the gaps between them. There are generations who have grown up in the digital space, navigating online worlds with ease, whilst older generations, many of whom are newer to technology, can be more vulnerable to scams, misinformation and exploitation.  

Mothers’ Union has always championed the safety, dignity and equality of women and girls. Ending gender-based violence, including digital violence, is central to that mission.

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