The practice of sexting, or exchanging sexually explicit messages and images, is becoming a significant part of teenage life in Cyprus, with concerns growing about potential leaks of sensitive personal data. This was highlighted by the Commissioner for Children’s Rights, Despo Michaelidou, in an interview with Phileleftheros, emphasizing the urgent need for sexual education and the empowerment of children in navigating the online world.
Michaelidou expressed caution regarding the recent proposal by the Ministry of Education to allow mobile phones in schools. She asserted that prevention of internet addiction should start at a young age, rather than during adolescence, arguing that it’s often too late by then. She noted the lack of recreational spaces and themed parks in Cyprus for youth to engage outside of the virtual realm, despite the critical importance of entertainment for young people.
She stressed that children need to be weaned off smartphones from an early age, particularly within family settings, where adults often set poor examples by being preoccupied with their devices during meals or family time. Michaelidou argued against allowing children to use smartphones from as young as five years old, calling for concerted efforts in families to promote healthy technology use.
Moreover, the Commissioner described a “sterilised and maimed generation,” warning that excessive overprotection can lead to children becoming incapable of confronting real-world challenges. She cited a growing trend where children lack essential skills, such as the ability to use scissors, as a result of their reliance on technology. She referenced Sweden’s shift back to traditional methods of learning with pencils and paper after initially introducing tablets in schools.
Online Dangers and Challenges
The Commissioner also addressed other online threats, including a recent phenomenon known as “Sex Roulette,” in which minors engage in sexual encounters with strangers, emerging victorious only if they do not become pregnant. Although this challenge has not yet surfaced in Cyprus, Michailidou noted that groups are still communicating on various platforms and sharing explicit content.
With the onset of early puberty and adolescence, the Commissioner warned that addressing such challenges must become a priority rather than merely reacting to incidents after they occur. She emphasized the importance of educating children about these issues, stating that booklets on sexting have been distributed in schools. Feedback from an advisory group of teenagers indicated that sexting is seen as a form of emotional expression, with many youths expressing greater fear of their images being shared than of physical violence.
Moreover, Michaelidou highlighted the fears that prevent children from reporting instances of sexual abuse, emphasizing that feelings of shame and the belief that their complaints will be ineffective often hinder victims from coming forward. She urged law enforcement agencies to investigate any indications of child abuse, regardless of whether complaints are later withdrawn.
Shift in Family Dynamics
The Commissioner pointed out that incidents of child sexual abuse often occur within the family, with new forms emerging from partners of parents or close relatives.
The Importance of Play
In her remarks, Michaelidou underscored the vital role of play and recreation for children, lamenting the lack of facilities such as skate parks, bike paths, and open areas for outdoor activities. She stated that available parks are typically closed or require payment for use, which limits accessibility for children. She noted that there are virtually no outdoor recreational programs, and schools are not contributing to addressing this gap.
Despo Michaelidou has called for discussions involving students, parents, and educators regarding the establishment of an alternative school within the premises of the Pancyprian Gymnasium, a proposal that has sparked considerable controversy. Michaelidou expressed her skepticism about the initiative, stating, “I sent a letter to the Ministry of Education and I am awaiting responses on this matter,” voicing concerns about the creation of separate schools.
Expressing disappointment, she remarked that discussions around establishing shelters for minors, unaccompanied children, or students with behavioral issues often trigger public backlash. Michaelidou highlighted the absence of a platform for children to express their concerns, noting that pressing issues for them include child poverty, poor living conditions, climate change, domestic violence, childhood obesity, and educational evaluations.
She emphasized that frequent challenges arise regarding the quality of care provided, the behavior of staff, the management of problematic situations, and the overwhelming number of children in care facilities. “These are critical issues that need addressing,” Michaelidou underscored.
