-by NaAsia Bristol

As more children gain access to smartphones and social media, concerns are growing about the impact these platforms can have on their safety and well-being.

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance has launched a national consultation aimed at identifying solutions that will protect Guyanese children while allowing them to benefit from the opportunities technology provides.

While digital technology continues to create opportunities in education, healthcare, and civic engagement, concerns remain about cyberbullying, harmful content, online exploitation, misinformation, and excessive screen time among young users.

“What would be our guiding principles? And this is what we’re proposing that you consider. First of all, the first thing is child protection first. No compromise on that. The first, and our constitution says and demands and provides for us that we must act at the executive administration, judiciary, and all levels of society in the best interest of the child,” he said.

Teixeira said the consultation aims to strengthen protections for children online as Guyana expands digital access. She noted growing concerns about cyberbullying, online exploitation, harmful content, and excessive social media use among young people.

She added that Guyana can learn from countries that have already introduced measures such as age restrictions, stronger platform accountability, and enhanced parental controls.

“While social media and other online spaces can provide opportunities for learning, creativity and connection, they can also expose young users to harmful content, cyber bullying, exploitation, misinformation and excessive screen time if left unchecked,” the minister added.

Stakeholders are expected to return with recommendations in the coming weeks as the consultation process continues.

The initiative aims to ensure that children can safely benefit from technology while supporting Guyana’s ongoing digital development.