The member of the RA NA delegation to Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), the member of the NA Civil Contract Faction Sona Ghazaryan gave a speech at PACE Spring Session going on in Strasbourg. The MP noted:
“Sometimes, just a click can lead a child into a vast forest of data that will shape their future. We must ensure strong security measures within the educational system to protect them while also fostering an environment where they feel safe to express themselves.
There’s no denying the internet offers countless opportunities, serving as a hub of information and resources. However, it also poses risks to mental health and opens avenues for abuse, especially when children lack proper education on its safe usage.
Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have transformed children from mere users into content creators, introducing new challenges such as the misuse of AI and the potential for unwitting exposure to sexual violence.
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Additionally, I would like to mention a very serious problem that seems to be ignored! The danger of photo/video filters on social media platforms. While they may seem harmless, they can have profound effects on children’s mental health and well-being by promoting unrealistic beauty standards, fostering a culture of comparison, and distorting their perception of reality.
As these roles evolve, we must establish frameworks and legal systems to not only deliver non-harmful content but also create safe spaces for children to voice their opinions.
Alarmingly, around 80% of children across 25 countries report feeling at risk of sexual abuse or exploitation online, with one in three under 18 years old. As internet usage grows, so does the threat.
Another point I’d like to mention is the subtle risk associated with Netflix and YouTube. While they strive to ensure safety and appear to have things well managed, in our discussions, my colleagues and I have concluded that there’s still room for improvement in terms of safety. Therefore, it’s essential for us to collaborate with these organizations to maximize the benefits.
Agreeing with the report, the only solution is to engage in dialogue with children about issues like sexual abuse, violence, bullying, and suicide-related content. It’s evident that no single country can tackle these challenges alone; therefore, strong international regulations are necessary. Education and literacy are the keys to the solution!”