Are We Failing Our Children? - An Assessment of Internet Safety Initiatives March 2001

Childnet's Director, Nigel Williams gave a key note speech at the world's first international convention on online safety this week. Safe Surfing 2001, which was held in Singapore and hosted jointly by the Parents Advisory Group for the Internet (PAGi), and the National Internet Advisory Committee (NIAC)2, with support from the Singapore Broadcasting Authority (SBA). The convention enabled companies and community groups to come together to share their experiences and ideas on promoting online safety and discussed on online safety practices around the world. In his speech Williams outlined how the dangers to children had changed over recent years, and went on to review how effective the different sectors (Industry, law enforcement, Child welfare groups, governments etc) had been in playing their part to keep children safe online. In concluding, Williams warned all those involved in the Internet's development not to pay lip service to the issue of online safety but ensure that proper investment is made in awareness campaigns, the proper training of teachers and dedicated Internet crime units within law enforcement. "Our children deserve no less so that the amazing wealth of good that is waiting for them online outweighs the negatives that exist."