Abu Dhabi Summit calls for global action on child safety in digital spaces

December 9, Kathmandu: The WeProtect Global Summit 2024 concluded in Abu Dhabi, UAE on Sunday launching the “Abu Dhabi Call to Action” to address challenges in child protection online. The two-day event gathered government representatives and global technology leaders to discuss strategies for creating a safer digital environment for children.

The summit emphasized collaborative approaches and innovative technologies to safeguard children from exploitation and abuse linked to digital advancements, according to Emirates News Agency (WAM). The theme, Focus on the Future, guided discussions on addressing immediate issues while envisioning a secure digital future for children.

Iain Drennan, Executive Director of the WeProtect Global Alliance, underscored the need for urgent action, stating, “This is not a task for tomorrow; it’s a call to act today. Every child matters.”

Lieutenant Colonel Dana Humaid Al Marzouqi, a board member of the alliance, highlighted the UAE’s role in launching the WeProtect initiative a decade ago under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. She praised the Ministry of Interior’s efforts in advancing global cooperation for child protection.

According to WAM, the summit sessions explored solutions to technological threats, stressing transparency and international collaboration as key to ensuring children’s safety online.