Building a digital world that works for children in Maldives

Today, as we mark Safer Internet Day, we are reminded of the opportunities and our shared responsibility to ensure that digital technologies work for children and not against them.

Children and young people today are growing up in a world where online platforms and artificial intelligence shape how they learn, communicate, and make sense of their surroundings. Especially in Maldives, digital connectivity has opened new possibilities for learning, creativity, and connection across geographically dispersed islands. 

But these opportunities also come with real risks. 

Reported cases of cyberbullying and online exploitation have increased in recent years, highlighting an uncomfortable truth: the digital world is not always a safe space for children, especially adolescents, and many parents and caregivers are struggling to navigate these risks with limited guidance.

For parents in Maldives, keeping children safe online is becoming increasingly complex. Many are concerned about the content their children are exposed to, the amount of time spent online, and the influence of algorithms they cannot see or control. These concerns point to the need for stronger systems, not just individual vigilance including clear policies, effective safeguards, and practical support for families.

This year’s theme – Smart Tech, Safe Choices – reminds us that technology itself is not the problem. The challenge lies in how it is designed, governed, and used. Artificial intelligence and digital platforms must be developed and regulated in ways that prioritise children’s digital citizenship, safety, dignity, and rights, while still allowing them to benefit from innovation and opportunity.

However, protecting children in the digital environment is not the responsibility of any one institution. 

It requires coordinated action by government, regulators, educators, service providers, civil society, and families themselves. Strong digital governance, responsible platform design, and informed parenting must go hand in hand.

Through our 'Udhuhilan – For a Happy, Safe Community' campaign with the Family Protection Authority (FPA), UNICEF is working closely with the Government, civil society and community partners to strengthen local capacity to protect children both online and offline. 

Complementing this effort, our ‘TechPath’ initiative, launched in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Google for Education, is helping to equip students with essential digital literacy and 21st century skills. century skills by introducing innovative digital learning tools

By creating platforms for open conversation and delivering evidence based guidance, these initiatives help to ensure that children, young people and families across the Maldives have access to the knowledge and support they need to be safe in a rapidly changing digital landscape.based guidance, based guidance, 

Today and every day, we remain committed to working with partners to advocate for child-centred digital policies, promote digital literacy, and support parents and caregivers with the tools and confidence they need to guide children. 

Together, let us commit to building a digital future where every child and young person in Maldives can explore the online world safely and responsibly with confidence.

Komme kujjakah, rakkaatheri maahauleh.

For every child, a protective environment.