Topic: 2026 – Digital Equity for Children
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Siddharth Gatla
In Pakistan, there is a staunch digital divide between children of different socioeconomic statuses. Even with the rise of the internet and networks, many Pakistani children (especially in Balochistan and KPK) do not have access to the internet. According to past UNICEF reports, 80% of children in South Asia do not have access to the internet. This pernicious divide not only deprives children of the outside world but also creates larger gaps in education which widens the wealth gap between the wealthy and the impoverished.
Unfortunately, Pakistan is already plagued by several other issues which we consider to be more important than digital equity, so there isn’t any notable legislation or programs the Pakistani government has put forth pertaining to digital equity. The programs the Pakistani government has put in place are Digiskills programs which teach children how to use the internet, promoting use of the internet for women with internet campaigns, and cash incentives for I.T workers to spur growth.
Pakistan would support a resolution that bridges the digital divide between men and women in households, makes child-safe websites and networks that kids can access without the risk of being exposed to adult themes, teaches children how to access the internet and how to avoid propaganda, and an increase of the production of internet towers and electricity. These components allow children from all backgrounds to experience the internet and learn information faster and more efficiently across the largest communication network in history.
