LAHORE (Lord Media): A resolution has been submitted in the Punjab Assembly to limit social media access for children under 16. The resolution recommends introducing an age verification system for young users and implementing effective legal and regulatory measures.
The resolution was presented by Chairperson of the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Punjab and member of the Punjab Assembly, Sarah Ahmad. She stated that it is the constitutional and moral responsibility of the state to protect young children from the harmful effects of social media, cyberbullying, online exploitation, and inappropriate content.
The resolution demands the establishment of an effective age verification system for social media accounts used by children under 16, alongside appropriate legislation. It also recommends that the federal government and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) establish effective regulatory and monitoring systems.
The text of the resolution mentions that various countries, including Australia, France, China, and some states in the USA, have introduced laws and age restrictions concerning minors’ use of social media. It emphasizes the need for effective legislation in Pakistan to ensure a safe digital environment for children.
Sarah Ahmad highlighted that a safe digital environment is a fundamental right of every child, and necessary legal measures are crucial to safeguarding children’s best interests.
