President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on measures to protect children from harmful content and influences in the digital environment.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that according to the decree, the rapid development of information and communication technologies and the widespread application of digital tools in Azerbaijan have made social networks a significant part of the public relations system. The increasing digitalization of social interactions and the earlier entry of children into social networks necessitate an analysis and improvement of the current legal framework to address modern technological, social, and security challenges.
The Cabinet of Ministers has been instructed to involve relevant state bodies, scientific institutions, specialists, and civil society organizations to prepare draft normative legal acts within three months. These drafts will focus on protecting children from harmful social media content and, notably, implementing age restrictions during registration on social media platforms within the territory of Azerbaijan. The decree also mandates the Cabinet of Ministers to establish rules regarding the use of mobile and electronic devices in preschool groups and general educational institutions.
Furthermore, the decree emphasizes the integration of digital literacy, cybersecurity, and responsible online behavior into educational curricula. This initiative aims to foster a culture of critical information analysis and safe digital conduct among the youth. The Cabinet of Ministers is also tasked with promoting scientific research on the digital well-being of children and ensuring regular awareness campaigns for parents, teachers, and students regarding the protection of children's rights in the digital sphere.
This move aligns Azerbaijan with global trends where states are increasingly taking responsibility for the digital safety and psychological well-being of minors. By establishing systematic legal frameworks, parental control mechanisms, and age-appropriate content filters, Azerbaijan seeks to mitigate risks associated with data privacy and harmful online exposure. The initiative reflects the government's commitment to adapting its national legislative framework to the evolving demands of the global digital landscape while prioritizing the protection of the younger generation.
