The UAE's Education, Human Development and Community Development Council recently discussed proposals to regulate children’s use of social media and strengthen digital safety measures.
During the meeting, members explored ways to enhance online child protection within an integrated national system. Priority was given to proposals regarding the regulation of children’s access to social media, including a gradual, risk-based approach to platform use and new compliance requirements for digital service providers.
The council also assessed the broader impact of social media on family dynamics and communication within the home. Further discussions focused on the cognitive and behavioural effects of digital platforms on children—specifically regarding attention spans, time management, and language development.
The council also called for greater public awareness of responsible technology use and urged enhanced cooperation between national entities in the education, security, media, and health sectors.