Young people and digital rights: Perspectives from Southern Africa

As a member of the Alliance for Universal Digital Rights (AUDRi), we are looking forward to the final Global Digital Compact incorporating the perspectives of women and girls, and ensuring a ​​future where all citizens of the global digital ecosystem, no matter who they are or where they live, can enjoy equal rights to safety, freedom, and dignity. Equality Now’s Sally Ncube and Tsitsi Matekaire look at how the voices of young people have often been left out of this important conversation.

As governments near the final stages of negotiating the UN Global Digital Compact, which aims to outline principles, objectives, and actions for advancing an open, free, secure, and human-centered digital future for all, a glaring gap has emerged: the missing voices and perspectives of young people across Southern Africa. At a recent event hosted by Equality Now and the Alliance for Universal Digital Rights (AUDRi) on 12 August during the Southern Africa Youth Forum, none of the 47 young participants had heard of this crucial initiative or that it will be agreed at the Summit of the Future in September. 

The Digital Divide and Youth in Africa

Yet,  the data shows that young people in Africa have a huge stake in digital governance and cooperation. They are the most connected demographic online. In sub-Saharan Africa, 34% of young people are connected, compared to just 25% of the whole population. This connectivity is a powerful tool, enabling them to learn new skills, create content, exercise free expression, and connect with others globally. For instance, many young Africans use online platforms to access educational resources, participate in online courses, and develop digital literacy skills that are crucial for the modern workforce. Social media and other digital platforms also provide a space for creative expression, allowing young people to share their art, music, and ideas with a global audience.

However, this digital engagement is not without its challenges. Limited access to reliable internet and digital devices remains a significant barrier, particularly in rural areas. Many young people struggle with inconsistent connectivity, which hampers their ability to participate in the digital world fully. Additionally, the online environment can expose them to various harms. Cyberbullying is a pervasive issue, with many young people experiencing harassment and abuse online. Tech-facilitated gender-based violence is another serious concern, affecting the safety and well-being of young women and girls. Moreover, restrictions on freedom of expression and the spread of misinformation pose significant threats to their digital rights. In some regions, young people face censorship and surveillance, limiting their ability to speak freely and access diverse viewpoints. Misinformation and fake news can also distort their understanding of important issues, and many are groomed into misogynistic views.  

Voices from the Southern Africa Youth Forum

At the SAYoF_SADC event, young people from Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia passionately expressed their concerns about their lack of representation in digital rights discussions. They emphasized the importance of having a seat at the table to participate meaningfully in decisions about digital cooperation and the promotion of digital rights. This demand makes sense. Young people are the primary users of digital technologies and platforms. Their unique perspectives and experiences are essential in identifying the specific challenges they face. By involving them in policy-making, we ensure that their needs and interests are accurately represented and addressed.

Young people often bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table. Their familiarity with digital tools and platforms allows them to think creatively about tackling issues like online safety, digital literacy, and equitable access. Their input can lead to more effective and forward-thinking laws and policies. When young people are involved in decision-making, they feel a sense of ownership and empowerment. This engagement fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages them to actively participate in their communities. It also helps build their confidence and leadership skills, which are valuable for personal and professional development.

Recommendations to SADC Heads of States

The young participants made several recommendations to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State who met on 17 August to discuss regional development issues. Key among them is the need to increase digital facilities and access to young people in rural areas and ensure young women and those living with disability are not left behind. They highlighted that governments should equip young people with digital skills and literacy from early education and ensure their meaningful participation at all levels of digital growth. Young people also called on their governments to enact effective laws to deal with online gender-based violence and ensure that oversight mechanisms are effective and accountable. 

What next for young people?

The adoption of the Global Digital Compact is the first step. Young people can be involved in its implementation and follow-up. The Alliance for Universal Digital Rights offers an opportunity for young people to be part of a movement calling on governments to promote and ensure universal digital rights for all.