During a recent event held as part of the BeSmartOnline programme, 35 youths aged between 10 and 17 were given the opportunity to voice their opinions and make recommendations to local policy makers on how to make the internet a safe and fun experience for everyone.

The event was organised by Aġenzija Appoġġ, the Malta Communications Authority (MCA) and the Cybercrime Unit of the Malta Police Force. It was attended by youths from the BeSmartOnline! Youth Panel, Żgħażagħ Azzjoni Kattolika, the Girl Guides and various football nurseries who discussed social networks, personal privacy, internet abuse prevention and reporting.

The event came to an end with a presentation by Naomi Camilleri, aged 16, who represented Maltese youths at the EU’s Safer Internet Forum held in Luxembourg between in October. Naomi highlighted the topics discussed at the forum and explained the event’s key conclusion – that every person has rights and responsibilities when using the internet.

Coordinated by the MCA, the BeSmartOnline project brings together Aġenzija Appoġġ, the Office of the Commissioner for Children, the Directorate for Educational Services, the Secretariat for Catholic Education, and the Malta Police Force.

The partners are working together towards raising awareness and educating minors, carers and educators on the safer use of the internet, establishing, operating and promoting reporting facilities for internet abuse as well as providing support to respective victims and their families.

Supportline 179 is serving as a helpline and hotline for the project offering support and advice on matters of internet safety and as a channel for reporting abuse.

The project is co-financed by the Safer Internet Programme of the European Union.

www.besmartonline.org.mt