Considering the experience of Australia and other countries, society needs to responsibly assess the presence of children in the digital environment and consider options to limit uncontrolled internet use until the age of 15, Health Minister Hosam Abu Meri stated through his advisor Ilona Oshe.
Abu Meri emphasizes that the deterioration of children's mental health in Europe requires a coordinated and cross-sectoral approach. At a recent informal meeting of EU health ministers in Cyprus, Latvia, along with other member states, pointed out that the rise in mental health issues among children and youth cannot be addressed with isolated measures.
During his visit to Cyprus, the minister highlighted children's vulnerability to disinformation and manipulative content in the digital environment, which, according to him, underscores the need for a safer digital space.
The minister notes that analysis from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and international studies increasingly point to a link between intensive use of social media in early adolescence and a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
At the same time, Abu Meri noted that Latvia currently leads the joint initiative of European countries "Mental Health Together" (MENTOR), aimed at developing and testing the approach of "Mental Health in All Policies."
Work on regulating social media would be a logical and necessary continuation of this strategy to practically strengthen youth resilience and protect their development, the minister believes.
