Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a transformative force in shaping various aspects of society, including children’s rights. In Tunisia and the Arab world, where digital transformation is advancing, AI offers immense potential to protect and empower children.

However, the rapid pace of technological adoption also introduces challenges that require proactive measures to safeguard the rights of younger generations.

1.Tunisia: A Regional Leader in Digital Child Protection:

In June 2021, Tunisia launched its first online portal dedicated to reporting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Developed in collaboration with global partners such as the Internet Watch Foundation, this initiative marked a significant milestone in leveraging digital tools to combat child exploitation. By providing a streamlined mechanism to report and address online threats, Tunisia set a regional precedent for using technology to uphold children’s rights.

Strategic Focus on Digital Literacy and Safety

Tunisia’s commitment to child protection extends beyond reactive measures. The country’s National Strategy Against Digital Violence emphasizes:
Empowering families to recognize and address digital risks, creating safer online environments for children. Educating children on digital literacy and ethical content creation.
This initiative is spearheaded by the National Center for Information Technology for Children, which equips young people with the tools to navigate the digital world responsibly.

2.AI Readiness and Digital Transformation :

Tunisia has emerged as a pioneer in digital evolution, with an internet penetration rate of 79.6% in 2024. Its early adoption of the internet in 1991 positioned the country as one of Africa’s digital trailblazers. Tunisia’s performance in AI readiness reflects this legacy:
Governance: A strong score of 50 highlights the country’s commitment to implementing effective policies and regulations.
Data Representativeness: A score of 68.03 underscores the progress in ensuring diverse and inclusive data systems.
While Tunisia’s digital infrastructure provides a solid foundation, challenges persist in expanding technological access and connectivity, particularly in underserved areas. Increased investment in infrastructure will be critical to ensuring equitable access to AI benefits.

3. Pressing Challenges: Protecting Vulnerable Children :

Despite its advancements, Tunisia faces persistent issues that intersect with children’s rights, including:
Child Labor: Economic disparities contribute to child labor, depriving many children of their right to education and a safe childhood. Access to Education: Gaps in educational access, particularly in rural areas, hinder children from acquiring critical digital skills.
Child Trafficking: The exploitation of children remains a serious concern, requiring sustained collaboration with international organizations such as UNICEF and the Council of Europe.

4. AI’s Role in Addressing Regional Challenges :

In the broader Arab world, AI can serve as a powerful tool to tackle systemic challenges affecting children’s rights. From predictive analytics to identify at-risk children to automated monitoring systems that flag harmful online content, AI offers innovative solutions to longstanding problems. However, to realize these benefits, governments and stakeholders must prioritize:
Ethical AI Use: Ensuring AI systems are transparent, fair, and aligned with human rights principles.
Capacity Building: Investing in digital education and training for children, families, and educators.
Regional Collaboration: Sharing best practices and resources across Arab nations to address shared challenges collectively.

Vision for the Future:

Tunisia’s proactive approach to digital transformation and child protection reflects a broader vision for a safer, more inclusive society. By combining technological innovation with targeted policies, Tunisia has the potential to become a regional leader in promoting children’s rights in the digital age. With sustained investment and collaboration, Tunisia and the Arab world can address current challenges and harness AI’s transformative power to build a brighter future for their youngest citizens.