PHNOM PENH: The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) of Cambodia, supported by the Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children and UNICEF Cambodia, has launched the Guidelines on Child Online Protection for the Digital Technology Industry. The aim is to ensure a safe and positive online experience for children by addressing the risks associated with their increased online presence.

Dr. Will Parks, UNICEF Cambodia Representative, emphasized the importance of protecting children from cyberbullying, peer-to-peer violence, and online sexual exploitation and abuse. Recent findings from UNICEF's "Cambodia Disrupting Harm" report revealed that more than 10% of Cambodian children aged 12 to 17 have experienced some form of online sexual exploitation or abuse.

H.E. Chea Vandeth, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, highlighted the commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia to protect children from sexual exploitation and abuse. The guidelines provide a clear stance on the prevention and response to these harms, urging the digital technology industry to implement child safeguarding policies, establish prevention measures, provide protection measures, and ensure confidentiality and privacy of children's online data.

The guidelines present an opportunity for industry members, including social media platforms, internet service providers, mobile operators, data hosting companies, content creators, and software developers, to enhance online safety for children. By adhering to these guidelines, the industry can contribute to the protection of children's rights and uphold the highest ethical standards.

The launch event brought together over 150 participants from government agencies, UN agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and industry players. Dr. Will Parks emphasized the complexity of child online protection and the need for commitment, coordination, and collaboration with the private sector to provide user-centric and safe services for children and adolescents.

The development of these guidelines involved close cooperation with key ministries, including the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation; Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports; Ministry of Women's Affairs; Ministry of Justice; Ministry of Health; and Ministry of Interior, including the National Police and Cyber Crime Unit.

The launch of the Child Online Protection Guidelines marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of children in the digital world, promoting a secure online environment for their growth and development.