MP calls law protecting children from social media a progressive step

Zahid Oruj, chairman of the Human Rights Committee of Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis, described the law on protecting children from the harmful effects of social media as one of parliament’s most progressive steps.

Oruj made the remarks during a public discussion on digital development, artificial intelligence and the protection of children from the harmful impact of social media platforms.

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

He said the initiative was a response to a demand from society.

“It 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 noted that many participants in the public hearing were themselves using their phones.

“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.

Gulnar Nazimgizi