DILI, 26 january, 2021 (TATOLI)– Plan International Timor-Leste (PITL) and Shareholders officially launched ‘National Let’s Go Digital’ to provide information on the use of Digital Technology to end an early marriage, compulsory marriage and reduce teenage pregnancy.
PITL Child Protection Program Manager, Fatima Ximenes said digital technology is an important tool for communication and helps to share information with the public, but in the current situation, many teenagers continue to be sexually abused by the misuse of digital technology.
Ximenes said PITL had conducted surveys in six municipalities, including Maubese, Aileu, Ainaro, Lequica, Ermera, and Dili. According to survey data, 70% of teenagers understand accessing pornographic content and 30% of teenagers do not understand accessing pornographic content.
Meanwhile, in 2021, another survey conducted by PITL shows that 24% of youth under 24 years old already have children, 29% of youth under 18 years old get married early.
Regarding the survey results from PITL, Secretary of State for Communication (SECOMS), Merico Akara said that more cooperation between related entities is needed to increase young people’s knowledge about the right way to use digital technology.
“More cooperation is needed between SECOMS, PITL, and other relevant stakeholders to provide more training and information for youth, on how to use digital technology properly,” said Akara.
Furthermore, Director General of Planning and Communication, Gaspar de Araujo said that greater control is needed for the use of digital technology in Timor-Leste, thus the Government of Timor Leste is committed to controlling this policy.
“We are working to ensure that all internet connections are controlled and do not allow young people to access pornographic sites and harmful content, to further end an early marriage and compulsory marriage that affects minors’ lives,” he said.
Journalist: José Belarmino De Sá
Editor: Nelia B
