[ad_1]
Sherab Lhamo
The students called for urgent action to combat online violence against children (OVAC), stressing the need for comprehensive guidelines, tighter restrictions and stronger protections to keep them safe in the digital world.
Concerns are growing about online violence against children (OVAC), according to a report compiled by GovTech and UNICEF. The findings highlight the urgent need for parents, educators, policymakers and other stakeholders to take proactive steps to address and prevent online violence and abuse.
Students proposed solutions such as reporting incidents to trusted adults and launching campaigns featuring idols, influencers and teachers.
The activities aim to raise awareness and promote responsible online behaviour and safer digital practices among children and young people.
The report found that parents and teachers lack awareness of the risks to children online. It also highlighted that many parents lack knowledge and understanding of cyberbullying and Child Online Protection (COP).
94% of households and 86% of the population in Bhutan have access to the Internet, with 93% of students having access to the Internet at home, in school or in the community.
These findings suggest that there is an urgent need to foster balanced and safe online engagement practices among students.
The COP guidelines are seen as a way to make children safer online. Different stakeholders, including parents, teachers, government officials and industry partners, need to collaborate and find the best way to implement the COP guidelines.
The COP Guidelines outline the roles of various stakeholders and provide guidance for ensuring a safe online environment for children and young people.
According to research, children go online for a variety of reasons, including studying, playing online games, socializing, and keeping in touch with friends.
However, students shared their negative experiences such as cyberbullying, encountering inappropriate content, and coming across fake accounts online.
One student spoke of witnessing cyberbullying between friends. Students described how a video of a fight between classmates was posted online, leading to the girl in the video being humiliated by negative comments.
The incident highlights the dangers of cyberbullying and the rapid spread of misinformation.
35% of older students reported receiving disturbing emails, posts and chat messages online.
These experiences can negatively impact their self-esteem and damage relationships. While some students may not be personally affected, they witness the harm that others experience.
The right intervention is needed
Students expressed a desire for a safer online environment where they could explore and use the internet without fear of being harmed.
The Child Online Protection Focus Group Discussion (2023) revealed that children reported experiencing cyberbullying, encountering inappropriate content, and facing identity theft.
They also faced challenges such as exposure to inappropriate content, encountering fake accounts, and experiencing social media hacking.
The survey found that students believe that education and awareness programmes are vital. They emphasised the importance of teaching responsible online behaviour and digital literacy skills both at home and at school.
The survey showed that when students found out someone was misusing their personal information, most preferred to talk to a friend rather than report it to their parents, teachers, siblings or the police or the National Commission for Women and Children.
The findings suggest that parents should limit mobile phone usage time and control data top-ups.
The research highlights the importance of having trusted adults listen, offer support and take appropriate action when children experience online bullying.
These trusted adults should offer a variety of support options, such as face-to-face conversations, online chats, or phone calls, depending on the child’s comfort level.
[ad_2]
Source link
