The rapid proliferation of digital technology has fundamentally transformed the lives of children, presenting both remarkable opportunities and significant risks. This dissertation, titled "The Protection of Children's Rights in the Digital Age," undertakes a comprehensive legal analysis to assess the extent to which international law currently safeguards children's rights in digital environments. It aims to identify the specific risks and challenges faced by children online and propose effective legal frameworks and policies to enhance their protection.
The dissertation begins by providing an overview of the digital age, highlighting the unique vulnerabilities of children in this context and the inadequacies of existing international legal instruments, such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Through an examination of authoritative legal sources and scholarly perspectives, it explores the gaps in protection and the evolving nature of digital threats, including cyberbullying, online grooming, and exposure to harmful content.
A critical exploration of the risks and challenges faced by children in the digital age follows, assessing the effectiveness of current international legal protections. The dissertation evaluates key provisions of the UNCRC and other relevant legal frameworks, using case studies and practical examples to illustrate the real-world impact of these protections and their limitations.
The central focus of the study revolves around formulating robust legal policies and frameworks to ensure the comprehensive protection of children's rights in the digital age. This includes analysing existing legislation, identifying best practices, and proposing new regulatory measures to address the dynamic and multifaceted nature of digital environments. Recommendations are based on a thorough review of international standards, regional agreements, and model laws.
The dissertation contributes to the field of international child rights law by addressing significant gaps in the current legal landscape. It provides policymakers, legal practitioners, and stakeholders with a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in protecting children's rights online and offers practical solutions for enhancing digital safety and well-being.
