Five things I am thinking about at Mobile World Congress 2026

Mobile World Congress, which starts next week in Barcelona, Spain, is often described as a place where the future is shown. Faster networks. Smarter systems. New technologies. But as Head of the UNICEF Delegation this year, I come with a different focus. I think about what all of this really means for children, who are already growing up in a digital world shaped by these decisions.

These are five things I believe we need to keep in mind.

1. Decisions made at MWC will shape childhood

Many choices discussed at MWC may not seem dramatic, but they have long‑term effects. Product designs, policies and partnerships influence how children learn, communicate and understand the world. The way platforms are built affects what a teenager sees late at night. Connectivity decisions can decide whether a child can access education or basic services. This is not about the future only. It is already part of children’s daily lives.

2. The digital environment is not neutral

Children are entering systems that are designed to keep attention, not to protect wellbeing. Many experience bullying, exploitation, harmful content or constant pressure to compare themselves with others. Parents often feel they are managing risks alone, in an environment that changes very fast. Leaving the digital world is rarely possible when school, friendships and services all depend on it. The real question is not if children should be online, but how safe and fair the systems are when they are.

3. AI is already part of childhood

Artificial intelligence is shaping what children learn, watch and believe, often without them noticing it. Used well, it can support teachers and help personalise learning. Used without care, it can increase bias, spread misinformation and exclude those who are already vulnerable. Children without access risk falling further behind. Children with access but without protection may face new types of harm. AI is already part of childhood. Our responsibility is to guide it in the right direction.

4. Simple solutions do not solve complex problems

Bans and strict age limits can sound strong, but they often miss the real issue. Pushing children away from large platforms without fixing how those platforms work can send them to less safe spaces. When companies think children are not their responsibility, safety is no longer a priority. What helps more is safer design, step‑by‑step access, digital skills and balanced regulation. Protection is not about exclusion. It is about shared responsibility.

5. What we bring to MWC

UNICEF will be bringing this child‑centred perspective to MWC, including the direct participation of three U-reporters, alongside practical experience. We will be asking leaders to look beyond speed and scale, and to think about real outcomes for children. Are they safer? Are they better connected? Are they more confident using digital tools? We will be working with our government and private sector partners to connect digital technology, policy and investment in a more coherent way.

When digital transformation includes children from the start, it becomes stronger and more sustainable for everyone.

Follow UNICEF Digital Impact on LinkedIn for updates from MWC!
 

Kaan Cetinturk
Global Chief Information Officer/ Director, Digital Impact, UNICEF