O Facebook and more than 20 non-governmental organizations and official agencies from the DRC, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa were gathered in support of the Safer Internet Day this Tuesday (6th) of February.
This year's theme was “create, connect and share respect, a better internet starts with you“. Several companies, including Facebook and Google, have partnered with organizations that support the cause.
Akua Gyekye, Facebook's public policy manager for Africa, said: “Every day, millions of people across Africa come to Facebook to talk about their special moments and to stay connected with the people who care. We recognize the important role we play in creating a better and safer online community for everyone “.
Yes, Hans Martens, manager of digital citizenship program at European Schoolnet and coordinator of the Insafe network said Safer Internet Day is a key opportunity to broaden its message of use.
"Children and young people have the right to take advantage and benefit from all the positive aspects that digital technologies offer, they also have certain responsibilities, as well as everyone who supports them in their online experiences".
Yury Fedotov, executive director of the United Nations office on drugs and crime (UNODC) said that Safer Internet Day is an appropriate day to reflect on how the internet is a tool for peace, freedom of speech and economic prosperity . He said that the internet is an instrument that is bringing the world closer, however, along with the tremendous benefits that bring risks.
