The NSW Government is taking proactive steps to address the growing concerns surrounding social media use, particularly its impact on young people. With the upcoming Social Media Summit, scheduled to take place in Sydney and Adelaide, the government is inviting members of the community to share their experiences, concerns, and suggestions through a „Have Your Say“ survey.
The summit, a collaborative effort between the NSW Government and the Government of South Australia, aims to bring together a diverse group of experts, policymakers, academics, young people, and the wider community to delve into key issues related to social media. These include the impacts of social media on children, online safety, disinformation and misinformation, online hate and extremism, and the changing landscape of government services delivery.
One of the highlights of the summit will be the keynote address by Frances Haugen, a prominent whistleblower and advocate for transparency in social media. Haugen is known for her courageous efforts to expose the inner workings of social media companies and her advocacy for accountability and ethical practices in the digital realm.
The „Have Your Say“ survey is a crucial component of the summit, as it allows NSW residents to directly contribute their insights and feedback, which will inform the discussions and help shape practical solutions to address the challenges posed by social media. By engaging with the community in this way, the NSW Government is demonstrating its commitment to making informed decisions that reflect the needs and concerns of its citizens.
The summit will cover a range of important topics, including the formulation of a public health response to social media harm minimization, opportunities to address social media harms within educational settings, the role of social media in shaping identity and worldviews, and strategies to combat extremism and misogyny online. The event will also explore ways to create positive digital communities and reclaim the digital town square.
NSW Premier Chris Minns emphasized the importance of listening to young people about their online experiences and creating a safer and more positive online environment for all. He expressed his pleasure at having Frances Haugen as a keynote speaker, highlighting her expertise and insights on the critical issues surrounding social media’s impact on society.
Frances Haugen, in turn, stressed the need for accountability and ethical practices in the online space, particularly when it comes to protecting children from potential harm. She called on the community to demand more from social media platforms and to strive for a digital environment that brings out the best in us.
Overall, the Social Media Summit promises to be a significant event that will shed light on the challenges and opportunities presented by social media. Through collaboration and engagement with the community, the NSW Government is working towards creating a safer and more positive online environment for all.