NCRC convened partners including PTA, PKCERT, UNICEF and Telenor Pakistan for an event titled “Safer Futures Online: Awareness to Action” to underline that safer digital spaces are essential to preventing future online harm, especially for girls and young women who face disproportionate risks. The discussion centred on turning awareness into practical measures that improve online safety for children across Pakistan.
Pernille Ironside, UNICEF Representative, opened the gathering by stressing the urgency of creating online environments where children can explore, learn and connect without fear. She called for coordinated efforts to make online safety a routine part of children’s digital experiences and family conversations.
Ayesha Raza Farooq, Chairperson NCRC, delivered the keynote address emphasising that every child in Pakistan deserves a secure digital space. She noted that as access to technology expands, government bodies, industry and civil society must work together to prevent online exploitation, strengthen reporting systems and promote digital literacy so that online safety keeps pace with connectivity.
Dr. Khawar Siddique Khokhar, Member (Compliance & Enforcement) PTA, reiterated the authority’s mandate to protect users, particularly minors, by raising online safety standards, removing harmful content and improving mechanisms that allow children and families to report digital threats quickly and effectively.
Mr. Khurram Javed, Director Capacity Building NCERT, highlighted the need for strong technical safeguards and rapid-response capabilities at institutions that serve children. He underlined the importance of equipping young users with the skills to recognise risks and protect themselves as part of broader online safety education.
Fridtjof Rusten, CEO of Telenor Pakistan, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to responsible digital inclusion, stressing safer products, targeted awareness initiatives and community outreach to shield children from online harm while expanding access to technology.
Held in alignment with the global 16 Days of Activism and this year’s theme “UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls,” the event showcased a collaborative approach across regulators, industry and international partners to move from awareness to action and strengthen Pakistan’s capacity to safeguard children online.
