Via UNICEF
Computers, mobile phones, AI: children and young people live in a digital world. They know the advantages better than anyone, but there are also disadvantages that policymakers, (youth) professionals and educators must protect them against.
MAJOR INFLUENCE DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Digital technology is an integral part of our children's lives. In all environments where children and young people are, at home, at school, in sports clubs, at work or in physical play and hangout areas, they are connected via and with digital applications. It has a major impact on their well-being and development.
BENEFITS BUT ALSO SHADOWSIDES OF DIGITAL LIVING ENVIRONMENT
Children meet online, they make friends, have fun with games and videos on social media platforms. Moreover, children acquire knowledge and skills online that are crucial for their future. Digital technology can also contribute to education that is more varied and customized. At the same time, digital technology has its downsides. Children face many risks when they enter the online world. Think of harmful information, gambling, bullying, discrimination and fake news. But also sexual abuse, gender-based violence and cyber aggression.
SCIENTIFIC ESSAYS
What does scientific research say about the influence of digitalization on children and children's rights? What can politicians, policymakers, administrators and other stakeholders do with it? And how can the rights and interests of the child ultimately be best safeguarded? An eight-part essay series will be published together with Leiden University and Kennisnet to increase knowledge about children's rights in the digital world in the Netherlands. Download the essays here.
