Overall, children are enthusiastic about the fact that the internet improves their access to information – but children from all over the world point out that false and misleading information is circulating online.
Nepal, boy, 13: Digital technology allows us to get information from all over the world, even though we are sitting in one corner of the room.
Ethiopia, boy, 18: Young people can access information about the situation in their region and country via Facebook and television. For example, the recent coup in the Amhara region was first reported on television.
Philippines, boy, age unknown: The right to information is one of the most important rights in the digital age because [the internet] really helps us access information more easily. But we all need to keep in mind that not all information on social media is true and reliable.
Indonesia, girl, 14: As time and technology advance, we can easily access information. But it is difficult to assess whether the information is reliable or not.
Ghana, group of children: We want the government, technology companies, and teachers to help us deal with untrustworthy information on the internet.
Germany, girl, 16: In general, it's a huge mystery what actually happens to our data, because it's hidden in complex data protection agreements and legal texts. I would like to have clarity about what really happens to my data.
With their desire for more “truthful and trustworthy” information, children also repeatedly highlight the terms and conditions of digital services. Many criticize their opaque nature and often make a connection between poor online information and poor terms of use.
Germany, boy, 17: [We need] terms and conditions that are appropriate for young people, with a summary of the most important points.
Canada, girl, 15: Websites and apps take and use our information, sometimes with our consent. But actually, the fine print is so hidden that most people don't know what they've agreed to.
New Zealand, boy, 17: Governments and companies need to be much more transparent about their data use and collection. Why is it being collected? How is it being collected?
Children around the world welcome the opportunity to obtain information from a variety of sources. But they are concerned that this information should be more reliable, and this also applies to information from digital services themselves.