In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 66/170, declaring October 11th as the International Day of the Girl Child, with the goal of "recognizing the rights of girls and the exceptional challenges they face worldwide."
Currently, their connection to digital platforms is a fundamental part of their reality, with over 90% having access to a mobile device in Latin America, through which they can access the Internet, the largest library in the history of humanity. This great opportunity comes with a significant challenge related to girls' coexistence in an environment, the Internet, that was neither designed nor intended for them.
According to data collected by Askids, the data and insights platform for the U18 segment that surveys over 85,000 kids and teens in America annually, girls in America have significant concerns when they go online. When asked about their concerns, 69% responded that online harassment is their biggest worry. Being involved in hostile, abusive, or harmful behaviors online can include repeatedly sending threatening or hurtful messages, creating fake profiles to harass someone, or any other behavior that causes emotional or psychological harm to the victim in the digital environment.
Viewing inappropriate content on the web worries 66% of girls in America, signaling the need for effective parental control and stricter policies by the platforms. Algorithms and technology for connecting with them need to be more sophisticated in detecting and removing harmful material, and parents must be better informed about how to protect their children.
48% of girls are concerned about their online privacy. Protecting personal data is essential to ensure their identity and safety in the digital age. In a world where information is power, the leakage of personal data can have devastating consequences.
In a world where more than a third of Internet users are under 18, and this audience segment is the fastest-growing, it is crucial for every sector involved to take on the commitment and responsibility to ensure that minors' experiences online are safe.
The Internet was not originally designed with children in mind, and as a result, there are inherent risks when connecting online. Mitigating these risks and ensuring a safe and enriching digital environment for girls and boys is of utmost importance.
On the International Day of the Girl, it is essential to emphasize the importance of creating a safe and relevant digital ecosystem that guarantees innovative and entertaining experiences.
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