Children on the Internet: profiles of responsibility

Abstract

Following an examination of the principle of the best interest of the child, this essay addresses the issue of Internet usage among minors. It particularly emphasizes the necessity of appropriately balancing, on one hand, the rights to information and communication, and on the other, the right to protection from risks that may jeopardize healthy development. The analysis will explore the aspects of responsibility associated with the digital activities of young individuals. Furthermore, the paper underscores the importance of implementing effective preventive measures aimed at equipping parents – who bear the crucial responsibility of guiding their children in Internet use – with the specific technical competencies required to fulfill their educational and supervisory duties. In this context, it is essential to provide an appropriate “digital civic education” that, among other objectives, informs web users – through semiotic codes and communication models tailored to various age groups – about the responsibilities they may encounter as a result of “reckless” Internet usage.