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Showing posts with the label Digital literacy

Living in the Age of Digital Anxiety: How Do We Cope?

In today’s world, the internet is at the center of almost everything we do. From connecting with friends and family, to learning new skills, running businesses, or advocating for change. Digital technology has become a powerful part of our daily lives, but along with these benefits, comes a new challenge: digital anxiety . Digital anxiety is the stress, worry, or discomfort that people experience when engaging with digital tools and online spaces. It can show up in many ways such as feeling overwhelmed by constant notifications, comparing yourself to others on social media, worrying about online safety, or even fearing that you are “not tech-savvy enough” to keep up. Why Are So Many People Feeling Digitally Anxious? Information Overload – We are constantly bombarded with news, updates, and opinions online. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) – Social media often makes us feel like everyone else is doing better, achieving more, or ...

The Silent Survivors: Why Child Sexual Abuse Online Is a Feminist Issue

Why Child Sexual Abuse Online Is a Feminist Issue In today’s digital age, harm doesn’t always begin in dark alleys or locked rooms, it often starts with a message, a friend request, or an innocent-looking link. Behind the glow of a phone screen, countless girls and young women are being targeted, exploited, and silenced through child sexual abuse online. And yet, these survivors remain largely invisible in conversations about tech policy, law enforcement, and digital innovation. At Shetechtive, we believe it’s time to say it plainly: Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) online is not just a crime, it is a feminist issue.   ✊🏾 Gendered Harms in Digital Spaces CSAM disproportionately affects girls. According to global statistics, over 90% of known CSAM victims are female. This isn’t accidental, it reflects broader gendered patterns of power, control, and sexualized violence that extend from offline patriarchy into online platforms. Girls, especially those from marginalized ...

Swipe Safe: 5 Digital Rights Every Child Deserves in the Online World

  In today’s world, childhood and technology are inseparable. From playing games and watching videos to learning and socializing online, children are navigating digital spaces more than ever before. But while the internet offers countless opportunities, it also poses risks, making it crucial to understand and protect children’s digital rights . Did you know that children have rights in the digital world just like they do offline? In 2021, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child adopted General Comment No. 25 , which clarified how children’s rights apply in the digital environment. Let’s explore the 5 key rights every child should enjoy online :   🧒 1. Right to Access Information Every child has the right to freely access age-appropriate and diverse online content, whether it’s educational resources, games, or entertainment. Access should not be limited by geography, gender, or socio-economic background. Why it matters: This right ensures digital in...

Leveraging Digital Technology to Strengthen Democracy in the Digital Age

  In the 21st century, digital technologies and information and communication technologies (ICTs) have become indispensable tools in the advancement of democracy worldwide. From enhancing transparency and citizen engagement to safeguarding electoral integrity and countering misinformation, digital innovation continues to redefine governance. However, as technology reshapes democratic processes, it also introduces new challenges that require careful regulation and ethical implementation. 1. Digital Technology and Access to Information A well-informed society is the foundation of a thriving democracy. The internet has revolutionized access to information, enabling citizens to educate themselves about political developments, government policies, and their rights. Open data platforms, government websites, and digital news outlets provide real-time updates on national and global events, ensuring that information is no longer controlled by a few select entities. Social media has al...

Understanding the Dimensions of Media and Information Literacy (MIL): Access, Analyze, Create, Reflect, and Act

In today’s fast-paced digital world, where information flows constantly from various sources, Media and Information Literacy (MIL) has become an essential skill for navigating the complexities of modern communication. MIL is not just about consuming information; it involves a comprehensive understanding of how to access, analyze, create, reflect upon, and act on the information we encounter daily. Let's explore each of these dimensions and how they contribute to becoming a more informed and empowered citizen. 1. Access Access refers to the ability to find and retrieve information from various sources effectively. This dimension involves: Knowing Where to Search: Understanding the different platforms, databases, and media outlets that provide reliable information. This includes both online and offline resources such as libraries, news websites, academic journals, and social media. Evaluating Sources: Being able to distinguish between credible an...