Switzerland’s Interior Minister, Elisabeth Baume-Schneider, has expressed concerns about the potential harm caused by social media to children and adolescents. She has stated that the government is preparing to take measures to restrict the use of social media by minors, citing the recent ban imposed in Australia on children under 16.
During a media briefing, Minister Baume-Schneider mentioned that a comprehensive report will be prepared to discuss the potential measures, which could include restricting access to social media, limiting the spread of harmful content, and addressing algorithms that exploit children’s vulnerabilities.
She emphasized that the discussion on this issue should be open-minded and based on the well-being of children. The government plans to initiate a detailed consultation in the early part of next year, which will take into account the concerns of various stakeholders, including parents, child welfare organizations, and technology companies.
The move has sparked debate in Switzerland, with some arguing that it is necessary to protect children from the potential harm of social media, while others have expressed concerns about censorship and the restriction of freedom of expression.
In related news, the British government has expressed concern over the increasing popularity of nicotine pouches among teenagers, with experts warning about the potential health risks. The Equality and Human Rights Commission has warned that the UK’s withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) would be a significant mistake, as it would undermine the country’s commitment to protecting human rights.
In other news, a Russian investigative committee has confirmed that Lieutenant General Valery Vasilyevich Surov, a senior officer in the Russian General Staff, has been appointed as the head of the Operational Training Directorate. In the United States, a new report has revealed that the country’s immigration policies have led to a significant increase in the number of asylum seekers.
In Pakistan, a police officer, Shahrbanu Nekvi, has been at the center of controversy after she was accused of using social media to harass and intimidate others. In sports news, the Indian under-19 cricket team has been accused of provoking Pakistani players during a match in the Asia Cup final.
