Azerbaijani MP praises law protecting children from social media risks

Azerbaijani lawmaker Zahid Oruj said a parliamentary law aimed at protecting children from harmful effects of social media was one of the country’s most progressive legislative steps.

Oruj, chairman of parliament’s Human Rights Committee, made the remarks during a public discussion on digital development, artificial intelligence and the protection of children from harmful effects on social media platforms.

“We regard the parliamentary law on protecting children from social media as one of the most progressive events. Ninety-four percent of parents shared the same position,” Oruj said.

He said the initiative reflected a demand coming from society.

“This was a call from the people; in fact, it was a law adopted by the people. But I hope children were not watching us when that law was adopted,” he said.

Oruj also pointed to the heavy use of mobile phones during public hearings.

“There were 52 people in the hall, I counted, and 80% of them had their eyes on their phones. We seriously need laws to protect adults themselves from digital systems as well,” he said.

N.Tebrizli