On June 5, 2024, a pivotal meeting was held at the U.S. Embassy in Cameroon, bringing together the National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies (Antic) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Central to the discussions was the protection of children’s rights online, with both institutions sharing their experiences regarding the implementation of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in the U.S. and the Cameroonian Online Child Protection Charter (COPC).
An International Collaboration for Online Child Protection
On Wednesday, June 5, 2024, the U.S. Embassy in Cameroon hosted a significant meeting between a delegation from the National Agency for Information and Communication Technologies (Antic), led by its Director General, Professor Ebot Ebot Enaw, and a delegation from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The central topic was the protection of children’s rights online, focusing on the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and the Cameroonian Online Child Protection Charter (COPC).
Legislative Frameworks for Child Online Protection
Promulgated on July 28, 2023, by the President of Cameroon, H.E. Paul Biya, the law No. 2023/009 establishing the Cameroonian Online Child Protection Charter defines a child as any person under 18 years of age. Developed by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications in collaboration with various administrations, this law aims primarily, according to Article 05, to ensure secure Internet access for children’s learning, potential development, and well-being. It also aims to raise awareness among child protection stakeholders about the dangers of the Internet and integrate child protection into the handling and dissemination of information by audiovisual professionals.
In contrast, the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) imposes stringent requirements on operators of websites and online services aimed at children under 13 years old. It rigorously defines the disclosure of personal information to protect children’s data from misuse.
Enriching Exchange of Expertise
Over the course of an hour, the exchanges between the Antic and FTC delegations facilitated a valuable sharing of experiences and expertise in the field of online child protection. The discussions highlighted common challenges and respective approaches to ensuring children’s safety in the digital environment.
Enhancing Cooperation for Secure Online Spaces for Children
This meeting marks a significant step towards strengthening cooperation between Cameroon and the United States in the domain of online child protection. By exchanging their legislation and practices, both institutions are working towards implementing concrete measures to ensure the safety and well-being of children on the Internet.
The collaboration between Antic and FTC underscores a shared commitment to continuously adapting and improving regulatory frameworks to address new challenges posed by the digital age while safeguarding children’s rights and integrity.
This meeting illustrates the importance of international partnerships in bolstering online child protection and creating a safer, more inclusive Internet for future generations.