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Showing posts with the label internet access

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...

Understanding the Global Digital Compact: Shaping the Future of Digital Rights

The rapid evolution of digital technologies has transformed the way we communicate, access information, and participate in society. However, this digital revolution has also brought significant challenges, including concerns over privacy, online safety, digital inequality, and the role of big tech companies in governance. To address these challenges and create a more inclusive and fair digital future, the United Nations has proposed the Global Digital Compact (GDC) —a framework aimed at setting global principles for digital cooperation and governance. What is the Global Digital Compact? The Global Digital Compact is an initiative proposed by the United Nations to establish a set of global principles to guide the use of digital technologies. It is expected to be a core part of the Summit of the Future in 2024 , bringing together governments, private sector actors, civil society, and other stakeholders to build a more open, safe, and human-centered digital space . The Compact seeks...

Global Data Center Inequality: Its Impacts on Internet Access in Africa

In the digital age, data centers are the backbone of our interconnected world. These facilities, where vast amounts of data are stored, processed, and distributed, are crucial for running the apps, websites, and services that have become essential to everyday life. However, the global distribution of data centers is far from equal. As of 2024, Africa, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, is home to just 130 data centers—a stark contrast to other regions like North America, which boasts over 2,600 centers. This disparity contributes to significant inequalities in internet access, digital infrastructure, and economic opportunities. Let’s explore the impacts of this imbalance. The Unequal Distribution of Data Centers Globally, data centers are heavily concentrated in the Global North. Countries like the United States, Germany, and the UK host some of the largest facilities, driven by factors such as economic power, technological infrastructure, and favorable climates for data storage....