GENEVA: Saudi Arabia issued a unified call for stronger protection of children in cyberspace during the 58th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva. Representing over 70 countries, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khothaila, the Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, stressed the urgent need for capacity-building and global cooperation to safeguard children online.
He highlighted that protecting children in the digital space is not only a technical issue but crucial for global security and sustainability.
Ambassador Khothaila noted the disparities in resources and infrastructure, leaving many developing countries ill-prepared to address the growing digital threats to children. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector to implement effective, sustainable solutions.
He also called on the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to offer technical support to countries, particularly in drafting legislation, training law enforcement, and setting up secure reporting mechanisms.
The statement underscored the collective global responsibility to ensure a safe digital environment that respects children’s rights and dignity.
It also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s leadership in this area, particularly through the recent launch of the Child Protection in Cyberspace (CPC) Global Summit by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at unifying global efforts to combat online threats to children.
[Reported by Saudi Gazette]
