Manny Ita –
Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has called on global health leaders and technology companies to take stronger action to protect children from online harm, warning that young people are increasingly exposed to dangerous digital systems built to maximise attention and engagement.
Speaking at the opening of the Lost Screen Memorial in Geneva, the Duchess described children’s online safety as a major public health concern. The memorial honoured individuals who died after experiencing digital-related harm. She appeared alongside Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director-general of World Health Organization.
Addressing global health officials, ministers, and affected families, Meghan said children are growing up in digital environments driven by relentless algorithms, exploitative engagement systems, and constant exposure to harmful content they often did not intentionally seek out.
She also warned that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are worsening existing online dangers instead of correcting them. According to her, AI is accelerating harmful experiences and allowing digital threats to spread rapidly across borders.
The Duchess stressed that online safety measures should not depend on luck or chance, insisting that digital platforms must be designed with children’s protection built into their systems from the start. She added that modern dangers move instantly and invisibly around the world, meaning protections must be equally fast and global.
Meghan urged leaders and families to speak out and pressure technology platforms to improve safeguards for young users.
Hosted by the WHO and Archewell Philanthropies, the charitable foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the event took place ahead of the 79th World Health Assembly.
It was also held in collaboration with The Parents’ Network, a support and advocacy community made up of families affected by online harm.
