Evolution of international approaches to protecting the rights of the child in the context of digitalization

The rapid development of digital technologies raises critical issues regarding the protection of children’s rights, requiring the adaptation of international principles and regulations to new challenges. This article explores the transformation of approaches to safeguarding children’s rights in the context of advancing information and communication technologies, with a particular focus on the outcomes of global forums dedicated to Internet governance. The analysis demonstrates that since the emergence of the information society concept, there has been a shift from primarily restrictive and prohibitive measures to a comprehensive approach that integrates digital security, regulatory frameworks, and digital accessibility. Initially, legal regulations for protecting children’s rights in the digital environment focused on minimizing online risks. However, in recent years, the emphasis has shifted toward creating conditions for children’s active and safe participation in the digital space. Modern international initiatives aim not only to prevent online threats but also to expand children’s digital opportunities, ensuring a balance between security, access to educational and social resources, and their involvement in digital governance processes. As a result, the concept of digital inclusion is taking shape, emphasizing the harmonious combination of protective measures with the development of digital skills and children’s rights in the context of digital transformation. One of the key elements of contemporary Internet governance strategies is the implementation of the «child rights by design» principle, which ensures a holistic and proactive approach to protecting children’s rights in the digital environment.