Children's rights in the digital environment : a challenging terrain for evidence-based policy

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) was formulated before the widespread adoption of the internet and related technologies. Consequently questions arise as to whether and how the UNCRC applies in the digital age. This chapter critically evaluates the challenges for States, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders of interpreting and implementing a human rights framework that recognises children as independent actors and rights-holders in a fast-evolving digital world. A global consultation with children and interviews with key experts highlight the value of the forthcoming UN General Comment on children's rights in relation to the digital environment.