The Tunisian Forum for Digital Rights, chaired by Shouki Kadass, has expressed deep concern over the increasing trend of publishing sensitive personal data of individuals, including children, on social media platforms. This data includes images of children, leaked judicial documents, and videos of minors who are victims of sexual crimes. The forum emphasized that such publications are not only illegal but also morally reprehensible.
The forum's statement, released on Saturday, highlighted that personal and sensitive information, particularly that of children, must receive enhanced protection. The publication of such data on social media is considered an illegal process that necessitates legal and moral accountability. The organization called on public authorities, including child protection representatives, to urgently intervene and stop the publication of minors' images and data.
Furthermore, the forum demanded that a serious investigation be conducted into the sources of leaked judicial documents and those responsible be held accountable. They also stressed the need to ensure protection, psychological support, and legal coverage for victims and their families. The organization suggested that coordination with digital platforms is necessary to quickly and transparently remove violating content.
According to the forum, children, whether victims or suspects, are entitled to special protection under the Personal Data Law, the Child Protection Code, the Penal Law, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This protection is based on the best interests of the child and the confidentiality of procedures related to them. The publication of images of minor victims represents a second assault on them.
The forum pointed out that using images of victims to condemn or blame them reflects a rejected culture that holds the victim responsible for the crime. They also noted that a child suspect retains the guarantees of justice specific to children, and it is not permissible to defame them or reveal their identity, regardless of the severity of the acts attributed to them.
The organization emphasized the importance of reactivating the National Authority for the Protection of Personal Data, which has been inactive despite the law governing it being in effect. They called for the authority to be given the independence and necessary resources to carry out its role. The forum also urged citizens and social media users not to re-publish any images, names, or documents related to minors, victims, or suspects.
Finally, the forum noted that the protection of personal data is a constitutional right, established by the Basic Law No. 63 of 2004. This right is guaranteed to every citizen, whether they are victims, suspects, or individuals involved in judicial investigations. This right does not expire due to what a person has been subjected to or what has been attributed to them.
Key points
- The Tunisian Forum for Digital Rights calls for urgent action to stop the digital abuse of children and victims.
- The publication of sensitive personal data of minors on social media is considered an illegal process that necessitates legal and moral accountability.
- The forum demands the reactivation of the National Authority for the Protection of Personal Data to ensure the protection of personal data.
