UNICEF Warns Against Negative Impacts of Digital Technology on Girls
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has warned that while digital technology has the potential to improve the learning process, there is also an increasing risk of misinformation and distraction from education for users. According to a new report by UNESCO titled "Technology on her terms 2024", digital platforms driven by algorithms spread negative perceptions based on gender and particularly affect the development of girls.
Negative Influence of Social Media Platforms
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay stated that ethical aspects must be considered in the development of such platforms. Social media should not limit girls' aspirations and opportunities in education and career. According to the "Technology on her terms 2024" report, the algorithm-driven dissemination of visual content on social media, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, increases the risk of girls accepting unhealthy behaviors or unrealistic physical perceptions.
The report refers to Facebook's own research, which revealed that 32% of girls under the age of 20 feel worse about themselves when they see Instagram showing them more negative images about themselves. On the other hand, spending time on short and enticing videos on TikTok leads to waste of users' time and affects their learning habits.
Impact on Education and Career
Continuous exposure to negative gender stereotypes through online platforms affects girls' progress in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. According to the "Global education monitoring report," social media's spread of negative gender stereotypes creates barriers for girls in STEM education.
Addressing Gender Inequality in Digital Transformation
UNESCO emphasizes the need to address gender inequality in digital transformation and calls for better regulation of digital social interactions, referring to its guidance on digital social interactions released in November. The "Innovation based on her conditions 2024" report features the significance of lessening imbalance in schooling, plan, availability, educating, and abilities connected with computerized innovation to guarantee that each young lady can benefit from opportunities that such technology can provide.
Ensuring Inclusive Digital Transformation
The benefits of technology should be utilized in ways that clearly eliminate gender discrimination. According to the report, ensuring ownership of digital tools and creating a supportive environment for girls to use and advance in technology-related careers will lead to a digital transformation that promotes education and advances gender equality without creating additional barriers.