NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – The United Nations emphasizes the need for enhanced protections for children and young people as digital platforms transform how they access information. A recent UN issue brief underscores the threats posed by disinformation, hate speech, harassment, artificial intelligence, and attention-driven online systems. It also raises concerns related to personal data, behavioral advertising, and algorithmic content distribution. The report advocates for stronger safeguards for younger users while ensuring they retain access to educational resources, communication channels, and public participation online.
Ahead of International Youth Day on Aug. 12, the Department of Global Communications published the brief. According to the report, over 82% of individuals aged 15 to 24 are internet users worldwide. Digital connectivity can create new opportunities for learning, civic engagement, and economic involvement. However, young users may also encounter harmful content while still developing their ability to evaluate information critically. The brief states that online risks can impact cognitive, emotional, and social growth.
The report categorizes these risks into three main groups. Technology-related dangers involve misuse of artificial intelligence and other digital tools. Distribution risks stem from algorithms and unequal access to trustworthy information. Content-related threats include disinformation, harassment, and hate speech. The UN points out that these issues often interact, as digital systems influence what users see and how content spreads. When platforms combine automated recommendations, data collection, and personalized content, young audiences may face multiple risks simultaneously.
Focus shifts toward platform design
The brief also investigates business models that rely heavily on user attention, personal data, and targeted advertising. It notes that engagement-driven systems can expose children to extreme content and features that promote repeated usage. Personalized marketing adds another layer of risk for young users. The report urges technology companies and AI developers to prioritize children’s rights and safety when designing products. It calls for increased accountability for systems that influence what young people see online.
Age restrictions have become a significant part of the broader debate on social media and child safety. The UN emphasizes that age limits alone cannot fully mitigate online information risks. Digital spaces can also serve as platforms for education, social interaction, and emotional support. Young people often use these spaces to create content, organize campaigns, and participate in public debate. The brief advocates for safeguards that protect children without hindering their access to digital tools vital for learning, communication, and participation.
Addressing AI safety takes center stage in child protection efforts
Artificial intelligence introduces new challenges into the online landscape. Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an AI Child Safety Pledge to regulate systems accessible to children. This initiative involves child-specific safety testing and stricter oversight before deployment. It also aims to take decisive action against AI-generated sexual images involving children. The broader UN initiative urges developers to identify, report, and eliminate such content, while integrating child safety protections into accessible AI systems.
The report highlights that governments, technology firms, advertisers, researchers, educators, and civil society all play vital roles in minimizing digital harms. It encourages children and young people to participate in shaping online environments. Applying the UN Global Principles for Information Integrity, the brief underscores that child safety, information accuracy, and digital inclusion must progress hand in hand as online platforms and AI systems become increasingly integral to everyday life.