By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
The Secretary-General of the
International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Doreen Bogdan-Martin, has
underscored the importance of ensuring a safe digital environment for children
as emerging technologies continue to shape the future of younger generations.
Marking the Global Day of
Parents, Bogdan-Martin reflected on her own experiences as a parent and
highlighted the growing role that digital technologies play in the lives of
children and families around the world.
She noted that while
technology offers significant opportunities for learning, communication and
innovation, it also presents challenges that require collective efforts to
safeguard children online.
The ITU Secretary-General
emphasized the organization's commitment to promoting safer digital experiences
through its Child Online Protection initiative, which seeks to help children
explore and benefit from the digital world while minimizing exposure to online
risks.
The Child Online Protection
programme supports international efforts to strengthen digital safety
frameworks, raise awareness of online threats, and encourage collaboration
among governments, industry stakeholders, educators and parents.
The ITU has consistently
advocated for policies and initiatives that promote a secure and inclusive
digital environment, particularly for young users who are increasingly engaging
with digital platforms from an early age.
As digital transformation
accelerates worldwide, the organization maintains that protecting children
online remains a critical component of building a safe and trusted digital
future for all.
