Lahore (HRNW)- A resolution has been submitted in the Punjab Assembly seeking to restrict social media access for children under the age of 16, recommending the introduction of an age verification system for underage users along with effective legal and regulatory measures.
The resolution, submitted by Chairperson of the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Punjab and Member of the Punjab Assembly Sarah Ahmed, states that it is the constitutional and moral responsibility of the state to protect minors from the harmful effects of social media, including cyberbullying, online exploitation, and inappropriate content.
The resolution calls for the development of an effective age verification mechanism for children under 16 using social media platforms and urges the enactment of appropriate legislation. It also recommends that the Federal Government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) establish a comprehensive regulatory and monitoring system.
According to the text of the resolution, several countries, including Australia, France, China, and some U.S. states, have already introduced laws and age restrictions governing minors’ use of social media. It argues that Pakistan should also introduce effective legislation to ensure a safe digital environment for children.
Sarah Ahmed said that a safe digital environment is the fundamental right of every child, adding that strong legal protections are essential to safeguard children’s best interests in the digital age.
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