Protecting children from online risks and cyber threats

TDT | Manama

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“We must strengthen Arab collective action and support national institutions in protecting children from cyberbullying to privacy violations,” said Samar Al-Hajj Hassan, President of the National Center for Human Rights in Jordan, during a conference held in Bahrain.”

The Annual Conference of the ANNHRI and 25th General Assembly titled “Protecting Children in the Digital Space: Challenges, Legislation & Preventive Measures was held yesterday at the Diplomat Hotel, bringing together ministers, members of parliament, ambassadors, heads of Arab human rights institutions, and representatives of the United Nations.

His Excellency Eng. Ali Ahmed Al-Derazi, Chairperson of the NIHR in Bahrain and Chairperson of ANNHRI, said: “This conference provides a unique opportunity to exchange experiences and best practices in safeguarding children in the digital space and to strengthen the efforts of the Arab Network.”

Meanwhile, H.E. Mr. Osama bin Saleh Al-Alawi, Minister of Social Development and Chairman of the National Committee for Childhood in Bahrain, stated: “Our National Childhood Strategy and the Juvenile Justice and Child Protection Law ensure that every child can grow up in a safe and supportive digital and physical environment.”

The recent conference on child digital safety in Bahrain emphasized the urgent need to protect children in today’s rapidly evolving online environment.

Today’s children grow up immersed in digital games, social media, and unrestricted content. These challenges pose unique legal and procedural difficulties, especially in tracking and addressing offenses across borders. Speakers highlighted the multiple risks children face online, including sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, online harassment, and fraud through digital platforms and games.

These challenges pose unique legal and procedural difficulties, especially in tracking and addressing offenses across borders.

The conference also stressed the importance of awareness campaigns and education for both children and parents.

Experts agreed that collaboration between legal institutions, law enforcement, and families is crucial to ensure a safe digital space.

Online

Creating a secure online environment requires combining legislation, technology, and education to effectively safeguard children in the digital era.

Children face growing online risks from cyberbullying and hacking to inappropriate content and scams. Protecting them requires parental guidance, digital literacy, clear boundaries, regular privacy checks, and open communication to ensure a safe and healthy digital environment.