Kemi Badenoch has urged a digital protection counter-revolution to safeguard children online. She stressed it is crucial in today’s social media age.
At a Westminster press conference, she appeared alongside bereaved parents of children affected by social media use. Therefore, she highlighted the urgent need for action. She criticized the Government for delaying a full social media ban for under-16s.
Badenoch explained that social media is for adults and should remain that way. Consequently, parents and lawmakers must strictly enforce age limits. Moreover, she argued that controlling who accesses platforms is easier than controlling content. She said, “Freedom is for adults. Children need guidance and protection.”
The discussion must extend beyond social media. For instance, mobile phones and artificial intelligence in schools require similar attention. She emphasized that digital protection needs continuous effort and cross-party cooperation.
Badenoch revealed personal measures to limit exposure at home. For example, she removed YouTube from her television to prevent her children from viewing inappropriate content. In addition, she banned her nine-year-old son from playing Roblox because strangers could contact him. She explained that adults struggle to disengage from social media, showing how children face even greater risks.
She warned that digital protection cannot wait. Therefore, lawmakers, educators, and parents must act together to create safer online spaces. She also proposed that any under-16 social media ban should cover platforms allowing direct messaging from strangers.
Finally, Badenoch said digital protection must become a societal priority. Protecting children online should match the importance of education and public safety. With a digital counter-revolution, she believes society can protect the next generation from online dangers.
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