SYDNEY, 8 NOVEMBER 2024 - UNICEF Australia welcomes the intention to protect young people behind the proposed social media restrictions for under 16s, however, recognises that banning young people from social media alone will not fix the underlying problems of online harms.
UNICEF Australia is advocating for a balanced approach to child protection and digital rights. This includes calling for child-safe online environments, holding tech companies to account, supporting parents and guardians, and implementing regulations that protect children online without unduly limiting their rights.
Head of Policy and Advocacy at UNICEF Australia, Katie Maskiell, says: “We know that children and young people benefit from the positive aspects of social media, such as educational resources, social connections, and support networks - they are vital for their development and well-being.”
The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child states that ‘national policies should be aimed at providing children with the opportunity to benefit from engaging with the digital environment and ensuring their safe access to it.’
"We want to see comprehensive digital literacy programs that empower children, parents, and educators to navigate the digital world safely. We believe that education and awareness are key to reducing risks and making a safer online environment for young people. It is essential to create an inclusive digital landscape where children can learn, connect, and thrive responsibly"
Tech companies also play a critical role – they must design safer platforms using the ‘Safety by Design’ concept. By incorporating robust safety features like privacy controls and age-appropriate content filters, tech companies can significantly reduce the risks associated with social media use.
“We know that children face risks online, be it from bullying, contact with strangers or exposure to harmful content. And while we welcome the intent behind this new proposed legislation, it is crucial to recognise that simply banning social media access does not address the root causes of online harm,” says Ms Maskiell.
“While banning younger teens from social media might seem like a simple fix, it may actually introduce more risks. Young people are really good at being online - if they want to use social media they will likely find a way.
“They may seek out covert and unregulated online spaces, or end up using social media without their parents being aware of it. Something we know about online risks is that maintaining open communication between parent and child is vitally important to protect children from online risks they face.
“In this regard, both the tech sector and governments have a responsibility to change the way social media platforms are actually designed, to truly protect children’s safety and reduce harm,” Ms Maskiell said.