Cairo, Egypt – the egyptian parliament commended President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s call, made during Police Day celebrations, to regulate children’s use of mobile phones and social media applications and websites.
The Egyptian parliament affirmed that this call reflects the state’s awareness of the magnitude of the challenges posed by the uncontrolled use of modern technology on young people.
In an official statement, the House expressed its appreciation for the state’s move to draft
a law that establishes clear guidelines for children’s use of social media and digital applications.
This legislative initiative aims to address risks faced by young people.
Some countries have gone so far as to ban children’s use of mobile phones.
This is done to protect them from the increasing risks associated with excessive use.
Behavioral risks for children
The statement explained that this approach reflects a deep understanding of the psychological
and behavioral risks to which Egyptian children are exposed as a result of the excessive and unsafe use of digital technology,
which can, in some cases, lead to digital addiction.
This negatively impacts mental health, social behavior, and academic performance, in addition to affecting the system of values and identity.
The Egyptian parliament of Representatives emphasized the state’s commitment to preparing a generation that is aware and qualified to use modern technology responsibly.
Young people should benefit from technology without succumbing to its risks,
thus achieving a balance between keeping pace with development and protecting children.
Digital chaos threatens the children
The Egyptian parliament indicated its intention to take all necessary steps, in accordance with the Constitution and its internal regulations,
to study and enact comprehensive legislation to regulate this issue and put an end to what it described as “digital chaos” that threatens the future of children.
The Egyptian parliament of Representatives also announced the organization of a broad societal dialogue through its specialized committees.
This aims to hear various perspectives and proposals from relevant stakeholders. Primarily, the government is represented
by the Minister of Parliamentary, Legal, and Political Affairs and Communications, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology,
the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, and the National Council for Motherhood and Childhood.
The dialogue’s aim is to reach a precise legislative formulation that ensures the full protection of children
and safeguards the integrity of their thoughts and behaviors.
