Saudi Arabia Leads Joint Statement with 75 Countries at Human Rights Council on Protecting Children in Cyberspace

Prince Mohammed bin Salman recently launched the World Summit for Protecting Children in Cyberspace, the first of its kind, with goals to unite international efforts and enhance the global response to threats facing children online. The Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to the United Nations and International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen bin Khuthaila, delivered a statement on behalf of 75 countries during the 59th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, emphasizing the need to build capacities to protect children in cyberspace.

The statement highlighted that protecting children online is not just a technical issue, but a strategic investment in a safer and more sustainable future. Many countries, especially those facing developmental challenges, still lack the resources and infrastructure to address the digital risks children are exposed to, necessitating the enhancement of capacities through international support.

The statement called for unified international efforts and strengthened partnerships between governments and the private sector to develop practical and sustainable solutions to protect children. It also urged the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to provide technical assistance to countries in need, including enhancing national legislation, training law enforcement personnel, and establishing safe reporting mechanisms.

The statement reiterated that safeguarding children online is a collective responsibility that requires urgent international commitment to ensure that the digital world is a safe environment where children’s rights are respected and their dignity preserved. This reaffirms the Kingdom’s efforts and ongoing commitment to protecting children and enhancing their security and safety in the digital environment.