The Government of Guyana has formally launched a national consultation on “Social Media and its Consequential Effects on Children,” seeking input from stakeholders as it explores possible measures to strengthen online safety protections for young people.
Speaking at the launch at the World Trade Centre on Tuesday, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira said the initiative stems from growing concerns about how children interact with digital platforms and the potential risks associated with excessive social media use.
Teixeira emphasised that the consultation is not intended to restrict technological advancement or Guyana’s digital transformation agenda, but rather to determine how children can be protected in an increasingly connected world.
“This is not about policing technological advances and digitalisation and digital platforms. This is something else to do with those who can’t protect themselves and how do we regulate that in a world which is rapidly advancing,” she said.
The minister noted that Guyana has embraced technology to improve access to services, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Programmes such as the government’s online learning initiatives have expanded access to thousands of citizens across all ten regions.
However, she warned that the rapid growth of digital platforms has also created new challenges, including cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, misinformation, online exploitation, excessive screen time, and concerns about mental health and cognitive development among children.
Drawing a comparison with road safety regulations, Teixeira said governments have a responsibility to introduce safeguards where risks emerge.
“The task is to maximise the benefits while minimizing the risks,” she explained.
The minister also pointed to growing international concern over the issue, noting that countries around the world are implementing measures to address online safety for children and that courts in several jurisdictions are currently examining cases involving digital platforms and technology providers.
Stakeholders attending the consultation were encouraged to return to their respective organisations, examine the issues, and submit recommendations before a follow-up meeting scheduled in two weeks.
According to Teixeira, the process will help shape evidence-based policies that balance innovation and technological progress with the protection and well-being of Guyana’s children.
