Amidst concerns of child welfare in Papua New Guinea, representatives from the United Nations, Save the children as well as local advocates sounded the alarm on the growing threats facing youngsters online during a recent panel at the Moresby Arts Theatre, highlighting an urgent need for action in the digital world as part of broader child protection efforts. Bronwyn Kili, Media & Human Rights Advocate, Izabell Druma, Advocacy & Communications Manager and Safeguarding Lead, Save the Children PNG and Marc Titus Cebreros Human Rights Advisor, Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights – PNG, gave an illustration of the reality of children’s safety online. Although ensuring physical safety and access to healthcare is essential, the panel highlighted that digital environments are becoming more perilous for children, many of whom do not possess the necessary tools, education, and support to navigate these spaces safely. Kili stated that digital safety and literacy are a big challenge for Papua New Guineans. “There’s the generational gap between children and their parents; there's a lot of parents who are unfamiliar with technology.” “Children are quick to learn about social media and technology because they were born into the digital age, unlike most parents did not come from that generation.” “Parents need to be educated on how these tools work as well as the risks, which will help them ensure their child’s safety.” Druma, also pointed out that school children are often unaware of online etiquette, rights and consent. “Students are often unaware of their rights online. Many don’t know that it’s not okay to be friends with teachers on social media or to share images without consent.” “This lack of awareness opens the door to abuse.” Initiatives are being implemented to tackle this issue. Save the Children PNG, in collaboration with the technology leader Meta and organizations such as ChildFund and NetSafe New Zealand, is actively conducting in-school campaigns focused on enhancing digital safety. This program features peer-to-peer education, digital safety ambassador roles, and widespread awareness sessions targeting both students and teachers. Nonetheless, obstacles persist. Educators and parents often do not have formal training in protective practices or a clear understanding of legislation like the Cybercrime Act. Even when policies are in place, their execution is often inadequate or entirely absent. The panel concluded with a call for both systemic reform and grassroots action. Among the most pressing needs are increased funding for child protection programs, widespread digital literacy campaigns targeting both youth and adults, and the establishment of a National Human Rights Commission with a dedicated child rights focus.