Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, has expressed interest in Australia’s recent legislation that restricts social media access for children under 16. The Australian government recently approved a groundbreaking law mandating social media platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to implement age verification systems or face hefty fines of up to AUD$50 million (approximately FJ$74.7 million). Notably, gaming and messaging platforms are exempt from this requirement.
While the law has faced criticism for being rushed and lacking adequate consultation with tech companies, it represents a pioneering effort to regulate minors’ access to social media worldwide. Kamikamica underscored the need for Fiji to adapt to the evolving digital landscape and address the negative effects of social media on children. He noted that the proposed law is currently under review by the National Pornography Taskforce, which he co-chairs. “This law is worth considering,” he stated, indicating that further measures may also be explored.
The discussion around this issue has sparked a call for parental responsibility in safeguarding children’s welfare. Sashi Kiran, from the Children, and Social Protection sector, emphasized that laws alone are insufficient without active parental involvement.
Additionally, the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is currently analyzing the Australian legislation and plans to release a statement after completing a thorough study. However, Minister Lynda Tabuya, who also co-chairs the taskforce, has not yet made comments on the matter.
In summary, Fiji’s leadership is considering legislative measures inspired by recent developments in Australia, which could lead to improved protection for children online. This proactive approach highlights the importance of digital safety and may serve as a crucial step toward creating a safer online environment for future generations.
This initiative reflects a positive movement towards acknowledging and addressing the challenges presented by social media, emphasizing collaborative efforts between government, parents, and society in ensuring the well-being of children in the digital age.
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