German Children’s Fund Urges Expanded Media Literacy Education Amidst Rise of AI
On today’s Safer Internet Day, the German Children’s Fund is issuing a critical call for increased support for media literacy among children and young people, citing the rapidly expanding presence of artificial intelligence (AI) content online. The organization is advocating for significant investment from the federal government in bolstering media education within schools and ensuring sustainable funding for high-quality, safe online resources for children.
The need for enhanced digital literacy comes as children increasingly encounter AI-generated content, raising concerns about misinformation, manipulation, and potential harm. According to the German Children’s Fund, a proactive approach is essential to empower young people to navigate this evolving digital landscape.
This year’s Safer Internet Day theme, “AI and me – In an artificial relationship,” underscores the growing interaction between children and AI technologies. To address this directly, the German Children’s Fund has launched a short video series on its children’s website, www.kindersache.de, featuring television presenter Clarissa Corrêa da Silva. The series tackles questions submitted by children regarding AI, including inquiries about the accuracy of chatbots and the potential risks associated with artificial intelligence.
“Especially with the rapid development in the field of artificial intelligence, the perspectives and rights of children must be taken into account at all times and everywhere in accordance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child,” a senior official from the German Children’s Fund stated. “Promoting media literacy must start early and reach all children. This also includes making AI understandable and critically classifying it.”
A particularly alarming trend highlighted by the organization is the proliferation of deepfakes – AI-generated images and videos that manipulate reality by inserting individuals into fabricated contexts. These tools are readily available and are spreading rapidly, with instances of sexualized depictions of classmates emerging as a form of digital violence.
However, the German Children’s Fund emphasizes that AI is not solely a source of risk. When implemented responsibly, AI can unlock new avenues for learning and creativity. “When children experience AI in an age-appropriate way, it strengthens their curiosity, their self-confidence and their judgment,” one analyst noted. The organization advocates for the development of safe, age-appropriate online platforms that foster exploration and understanding of AI.
The German Children’s Fund, which has championed children’s rights in Germany for half a century, stresses the importance of aligning digital initiatives with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. This includes ensuring children’s right to participate in the digital world and access media in a safe and empowering manner. The non-profit association, funded primarily by private donations and supported by approximately 40,000 donation boxes across Germany, actively lobbies for policies that prioritize children’s well-being and participation.
Ultimately, the German Children’s Fund believes that today’s Safer Internet Day serves as a crucial reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance and investment in online safety and media literacy, ensuring a digital future where children are protected, empowered, and equipped to thrive.
For further information and press inquiries, contact:
Uwe Kamp, press spokesman
Phone: 030-308693-11
Mobile: 0160-6373155
Fax: 030-2795634
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.dkhw.de
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Twitter: @DKHW_de
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