UNESCO and TikTok partner for the sake of media and information literacy

 UNESCO partners with TikTok on Safer Internet Day, which falls on 6 February, to launch a digital campaign to underline the significance of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in cultivating a safer online space.

Tawfik Jelassi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information at UNESCO, emphasised the global necessity of establishing an environment that safeguards citizens from potential online risks while providing them with the right tools and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape fairly. He further explains how engaging with TikTok and its community on Safer Internet Day underscores UNESCO’s commitment to fostering MIL for a more informed, ethical, and resilient digital community for everyone.

Safer Internet Day aims to equip individuals with the necessary abilities to responsibly, respectfully, critically, and creatively engage with digital technology, thus reducing potential risks. In partnership with TikTok, UNESCO highlights the limitless character of the digital realm, stressing the essential requirement for joint efforts to guarantee a secure internet environment.

UNESCO actively supports the development of MIL and Digital Competencies for all, aiming to enhance people’s ability to critically engage with information, navigate the online environment safely, and foster trust in the information ecosystem and digital technologies. Improving the capacity of policymakers, educators, information and media workers, youth organisations, and marginalised communities is a key focus area for UNESCO’s MIL program. To foster a reliable digital environment, the organisation actively supports member states in formulating their national MIL policies and initiatives.

As an integral part of the Safer Internet Day campaign, UNESCO has released a video on its TikTok account, advising users on maintaining fair behaviour on social media. ‘Dos’ include:

• Monitoring and limiting social media consumption.
• Reminding us that the internet is not private.
• Reporting any misconduct on the platforms.

On the other hand, ‘don’ts’ encompass avoiding excessive time consumption on social media, refraining from engaging in hate speech, and not sharing unverified content.