The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially highlighted the significant impact of the digital environment on the mental and physical health of the younger generation. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that current digital platforms are not neutral, but rather spaces designed and monetized in ways that affect various aspects of their users' lives.
One of the WHO's main concerns is algorithmic mechanisms that often prioritize audience engagement over information accuracy. This is considered dangerous as it triggers the massive spread of invalid health claims and misleading content among adolescents. In response, the WHO plans to strengthen research and provide guidance for countries to create a safer and fairer digital ecosystem.
In his statement, Tedros stressed the importance of involving young people in policy formulation. He emphasized that the younger generation is not a commercial commodity or an experimental subject, but a future asset that must be protected from exploitative practices in cyberspace.
These concerns have become increasingly urgent given a UNICEF report last February that highlighted the threat of artificial intelligence (AI) misuse. The use of deepfake technology to manipulate images and audio of young people presents a new challenge in maintaining digital safety, which global health authorities continue to monitor.
