The rapid proliferation of online platforms has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of global communication, commerce, education, and culture. From social media and gaming networks to livestreaming and encrypted messaging apps, the digital world has become the primary arena in which today’s children and young people connect, learn, and grow. Yet, alongside these transformative opportunities lies a sobering reality: the internet has also become a vehicle for serious harm, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable users: children.
Globally, the risks to children online are mounting. The World Health Organization estimates that one in three internet users worldwide is a child, however, digital safety frameworks have not kept pace with the expansion and complexity of online environments.
Emerging technologies, particularly generative artificial intelligence, are exacerbating these challenges. While many countries have launched national action plans or passed legislation to address these threats, the global response remains fragmented and uneven. Regulatory philosophies vary widely: some nations prioritise digital freedom and innovation, while others enforce stricter content control.
This report is written in response to an urgent global need to protect the world’s children from the boundless digital-sphere. It provides a comparative analysis of how four key countries – the United Kingdom, United States, China, and Norway – are approaching the regulation of digital platforms to protect children online. Each represents a distinct regulatory model, influenced by unique legal traditions, cultural contexts, and policy priorities. The report evaluates the successes and shortcomings of these efforts, offering insights into best practices, policy innovations, and the trade-offs involved in balancing child protection with the preservation of free expression and innovation online.
To download the full briefing, simply fill out the form below:
.
.
.
.