ARThis week, SWGfL (at the request of ITU and as part of the UK delegation) attended the ITU (International Telecommunication Union) Regional Development Forum where we spoke to representatives all across Europe about new initiatives that are working towards the better protection of adults, children and young people online.
The Forum is an annual event that ‘provides an opportunity for exchange of views between ITU and decision-makers of ITU Member States and Sector Members as well as other stakeholders in the Europe region.’ In particular, it allows a platform for the ITU and others to gain awareness around ‘strategic orientations’ taking place across Europe.
National Child Online Protection Assessment
For our presentation, Boris Radanovic, our Head of Engagement and Partnerships spoke about the recent initiatives adopted by North Macedonia. Specifically, the publication of a National Child Online Protection Assessment Report to lead a national strategy and multi-year plan of action going forward. Last year, these guidelines were presented to North Macedonia by SWGfL as part of a global strategy by the ITU to improve online protections for children.
Boris outlined the inspiring effort presented by North Macedonia in committing to the implementation of a National Child Online Protection Assessment Report, whilst calling on others to join the initiative.
‘’I urge each and every one of you to consider applying for this support, which includes a comprehensive assessment of the existing situation, the development of a national strategy and action plan, and recommendations based on global best practices. By availing ourselves of this support, we can enhance our national policies, standards, and mechanisms to ensure the safety and well-being of our children in the digital realm.
Let us seize this opportunity to collaborate with the ITU and benefit from their expertise and guidance. By working together, we can build a safer digital environment for our children, one that empowers them to explore, learn, and grow without compromising their safety.’’
StopNCII.org
Boris closed by speaking about the groundbreaking impact of StopNCII.org in the protection of individuals against intimate image abuse with a call for other nations to provide appropriate support. StopNCII.org was outlined as a sea-change solution to address a growing global concern and provide adults with an accessible way to prevent the sharing of non-consensual intimate images online; protecting themselves from perpetrators of this issue.
‘’. . . We must rally together to support victims of online abuse, particularly women and girls affected by non-consensual intimate image abuse. Technologies like StopNCII.org provide a glimmer of hope for those whose lives have been shattered by such heinous acts. By leveraging the power of legislation, NGOs, and online platforms, we can extend the use and support for victims of non-consensual intimate image abuse, fostering a safer and more compassionate digital world for all.’’
Our visit to Romania provided further discussion with Europe towards the implementation of appropriate online safety support to better protect adults, children and young people online. To find out more about the ITU, and to see how to develop a National Child Online Protection Assessment Report, please visit the ITU website.
