The Mauritanian government has proposed new measures to protect children and adolescents on social media. The measures include setting the minimum age for accessing digital platforms to 16 years old, with parental consent required for 15-year-olds. The government also plans to limit certain features that may expose minors to online risks. These proposals were approved by the Council of Ministers on September 16, as part of a communication on establishing a national framework for regulating minors' access to digital platforms.
The proposed measures aim to restrict features such as recommendation algorithms, infinite scrolling, and automatic playback for minors. Additionally, targeted advertising would be prohibited, and messages from strangers would be blocked. Live broadcasts could be limited, and nocturnal silence hours could be implemented. A national program to promote safe and responsible internet use is also planned, targeting children, adolescents, families, and educators. This program would help raise awareness about online risks and promote healthy online behavior.
The government also plans to establish a mechanism for reporting and supporting minors exposed to violence, exploitation, or other online risks. This mechanism would provide assistance to minors who have been affected by online harm. The proposed measures have been welcomed by some parents, who believe that they would help protect their children from online risks. However, others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their children's online experiences.
Kadia Diaw, a parent from Nouakchott, shared her thoughts on the proposed measures. She believes that the measures are necessary to protect minors from online risks. However, she also expressed concerns about the potential impact on her child's online experiences. Diaw emphasized the need for a balanced approach that protects minors while also allowing them to access online resources and connect with others.
Other parents have expressed similar concerns about the proposed measures. Some have questioned how the measures would be enforced, while others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their children's social lives. The government has not yet provided details on how the measures would be implemented or enforced.
The proposed measures are part of a broader effort to protect minors in Mauritania. The government is preparing a future law on protecting minors online, which would provide a framework for regulating online activities. The law would aim to balance the need to protect minors with the need to promote healthy online behavior and access to online resources.
The government has invited parents and other stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed measures. This feedback would help inform the development of the future law and ensure that it effectively addresses the needs of minors and families. The government aims to create a safe and supportive online environment for all Mauritanian citizens.
Key points
- The Mauritanian government proposes setting the minimum age for accessing digital platforms to 16 years old, with parental consent required for 15-year-olds.
- The proposed measures aim to restrict features such as recommendation algorithms, infinite scrolling, and automatic playback for minors.
- A national program to promote safe and responsible internet use is planned, targeting children, adolescents, families, and educators.
