The digital space, which has become a second home for young people, carries numerous risks, from harmful content to manipulative algorithms, said the President of the Assembly, Andrija Mandić, at the opening of the Youth Parliament for high school students.
He emphasized the importance of education, digital hygiene, and strengthening institutional cooperation, so that children and young people receive equal and effective protection tools in the online environment.
As announced by the Parliament, this year's theme of the Youth Parliament is "Youth Safety on the Internet", and participants are simulating the consideration of the Law on the Protection of Minors on Social Networks.
Mandić emphasized the importance of continued inclusion of youth in decision-making processes and strengthening democratic culture.
Recalling that the "Youth Parliament" program was launched in 2021, Mandić stated that it has grown into an independent mechanism within the Parliament, thanks to the dedicated work of the Educational Center and cooperation with educational institutions across the country.
"This year, 41 young parliamentarians from secondary vocational schools and gymnasiums are participating in the work, who will work on creating amendments through a two-day program with the support of mentors from parliamentary clubs," said Mandić.
As he emphasized, the central topic of this year's simulation - youth safety on the internet - is an issue of global importance.
Mandić pointed out that the digital space has become a "second home" for young people.
"But at the same time, it carries numerous risks, from harmful content to manipulative algorithms," Mandić said.
He emphasized the importance of education, digital hygiene, and strengthening institutional cooperation, so that children and young people receive equal and effective protection tools in the online environment.
Mandić also recalled the recently adopted Law on Information Security, as well as the establishment of the Western Balkans Cyber Capacity Center (WB3C), as steps towards building a more secure digital society.
Mandić called on young people to actively participate, share their knowledge in the field of technology, and make suggestions that will contribute to the well-being of their peers and future generations.
He said he is confident that the work of the Youth Parliament will result in quality initiatives and amendments.
As announced by the Parliament, today, high school students were supported in their work, in the role of mentors, by MPs Branka Marković and Nikola Zirojević.
The Youth Parliament will continue its session tomorrow.
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