Restrictions alone cannot ensure children’s online safety

Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja has emphasized that protecting children in the digital world requires more than internet restrictions highlighting the need for a broader social and technological approach.

Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja has emphasized that protecting children in the digital world requires more than internet restrictions highlighting the need for a broader social and technological approach.

Speaking at a seminar the minister explained that deciding how much online freedom children should have is a complex issue. According to her approximately 20 to 25 countries have already introduced restrictions on children’s internet access while several others are considering similar measures.

She noted that Pakistan faces financial and resource limitations with schools still requiring essential facilities and educational support. As part of efforts to improve digital learning the government is providing Chromebooks to students from Grade 9 onward. Some websites are being placed on approved access lists to help guide students toward appropriate online content.

However Shaza Fatima warned that blocking websites does not necessarily prevent children from accessing them. She compared technology to water explaining that it often finds alternative routes around obstacles. For example children may use virtual private networks (VPNs) to visit websites that have been blocked by authorities.

The minister also raised concerns about the ability of digital platforms to verify users’ ages accurately. Without reliable age-verification systems ensuring that online services are suitable for children remains a significant challenge.

She stressed that child protection online should be addressed within Pakistan’s broader cybersecurity framework. The country’s cybersecurity policy covers relevant concerns while the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has been established to deal with cyber-related issues. She said safeguarding children in digital spaces must form part of these wider efforts.

Shaza Fatima further pointed to the upcoming digital census as a potentially valuable source of information about children’s social media usage.

Despite the risks, the minister acknowledged that digital technology also creates valuable opportunities for young Pakistanis. Many children and young people earn foreign currency through freelancing, contributing to the country’s economy.

She concluded that while the digital world offers educational, professional and economic benefits, it also presents serious challenges. A balanced strategy combining appropriate regulation, digital awareness, effective safeguards and responsible technology use is therefore essential to protect children without unnecessarily limiting their opportunities.