Qatar’s third edition of the National Human Rights Forum concluded with a focus on protecting children’s rights in the digital realm. The two-day forum, held in Doha, united experts, policymakers, and students to discuss strategies for ensuring a safe and empowering online environment for young people.
The forum, themed Protecting Children’s Rights in a Safe Digital Environment, addressed the pressing need for a secure digital space. Sultan Hassan Al Jamali, Secretary General of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), emphasized equipping parents with the tools to protect their children online.
Youth-Led Initiatives Take Center Stage
One of the highlights was the active participation of students who presented their research on digital risks. Al Maha Sultan Al Jamali and Khadija Ahmed Hussein explored the negative impact of excessive social media use among sixth-grade students, focusing on mental health challenges and online exploitation. Their findings called for increased awareness campaigns about these risks.
Similarly, students Al-Reem Al Qahtani and Mauasa Bassam Nizami showcased their app prototype designed to educate the public on cybercrime risks. They urged state bodies, such as the National Cyber Security Agency, to further develop this initiative.
Expert Recommendations and Legislative Support
Wadha Ali Al Marri, an e-learning consultant with the Ministry of Education, recommended enhancing educational frameworks to empower students in navigating digital spaces safely. These recommendations align with Qatar’s Constitution and the Cybercrime Prevention Law No. (14) of 2014, which aim to protect children from online exploitation.
Virginia Gamba, the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, expressed her support for Qatar’s initiatives, commending the country’s proactive approach to safeguarding children’s digital rights.
Digitization and National Identity
In addition to discussions on digital safety, the forum also explored the role of technology in preserving Qatar’s heritage. Mohammed Saeed Al Balushi, a cultural heritage expert, highlighted ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Culture to digitize the country’s heritage and foster a sense of citizenship through technology.
An art exhibition titled My Rights with My Colours further emphasized the theme. Schoolchildren used art to represent the potential risks and benefits of digital tools.
A Path Forward
Qatar’s National Human Rights Forum served as a platform for collaborative dialogue, reinforcing the importance of youth empowerment in the digital age. By combining education, legislation, and innovative youth-led initiatives, Qatar is setting a benchmark in safeguarding children’s rights and promoting their active participation in shaping a better digital future.
