The United Nations has stressed that making the digital world safer for children is now an urgent global priority, warning that online harm is largely caused by the design choices and business practices of technology companies.
Speaking on Friday, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, said governments must ensure that tech firms build child safety directly into their platforms. According to him, harmful features such as infinite scrolling, autoplay videos, and constant app notifications contribute significantly to risks faced by children online.
Turk explained that while the internet offers children opportunities for learning, creativity, and social connection, it also exposes them to threats against their safety, privacy, and mental wellbeing. He argued that these dangers are not unavoidable but are the result of deliberate platform designs aimed at keeping users engaged for longer periods.
The UN rights chief called on countries to strengthen regulations, oversight, and accountability for online platforms. He also warned that blanket social media bans alone would not solve the problem, noting that children could easily bypass restrictions or migrate to even riskier and less regulated platforms.
Additionally, the UN released 10 guidelines focused on improving children’s online safety. The recommendations include stronger protection of children’s personal data and a ban on the “micro-targeting” of minors for commercial purposes based on their online activity.
Turk further emphasized that technology companies must prioritize safety by design instead of placing the responsibility solely on parents and children. He also cautioned that poorly implemented age-verification systems could create new privacy risks for both children and adults.
The UN maintained that any measures adopted must include independent oversight, strict legal consequences for violations, and access to justice for children whose rights are abused online.
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