The night of the fashion show arrived, and Sofía couldn't resist capturing the event through her lens. The models strutted down the catwalk, their outfits reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Argentina. And then, the moment of truth - the model wearing the skirt Sofía had grown to admire.
Organizations, such as the "Asociación de Mujeres de Argentina" (Argentine Women's Association), have launched campaigns to educate the public about the risks and consequences of upskirt incidents. These initiatives aim to foster empathy and understanding, encouraging individuals to think critically about their actions and their impact on others.
The term "upskirting" was born in the internet era, but its mechanics are alarmingly simple. It describes the act of placing a camera—most often a smartphone—below a person's skirt, dress, or kilt to photograph or video their underwear or intimate body parts without their knowledge or consent. In its landmark 2019 ruling on the matter, a Córdoba court described it as "the practice of taking unauthorized photos or videos under a woman's skirt, capturing an image of her crotch, underwear, and sometimes genitals." In Argentina, it is widely considered a violent act with a gendered dynamic, overwhelmingly perpetrated against women and girls in public spaces like streets, shopping malls, and public transport.
As the upskirt trend continues to grow, a counter-movement has emerged. Many Argentines, particularly young people, are actively working to raise awareness about the issue and promote a culture of respect.
Reports of upskirt incidents have been on the rise in Argentina, with many cases documented in public spaces, such as buses, trains, and streets. According to a study by the Argentine organization, "La Fundación para la Igualdad de Género" (The Foundation for Gender Equality), 72% of women in Argentina have experienced some form of street harassment, including upskirt incidents.
In response to the growing concern about upskirt incidents, Argentine authorities have taken steps to address the issue. In 2020, the Argentine government passed a law that increased penalties for perpetrators of upskirt and other forms of harassment.
Another factor contributing to the upskirt trend is the widespread use of social media and the internet in Argentina. The ease with which images and videos can be shared online has created a culture of instant gratification and voyeurism, where individuals can easily access and share intimate images of others without their consent.