British Embassy and Save the Children Dominicana launch “Safe Connection” initiative

Santo Domingo.- The UK Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Carol van der Walt, and the president of Save the Children Dominicana, Juan Tomás Díaz, led the launch of the initiative “Safe Connection”, a proposal aimed at strengthening safe, healthy and responsible access to digital platforms for children and adolescents.

The initiative arises as a joint response to the increasing access of children and adolescents to mobile devices in the country. In the Dominican Republic, 94.7% of households have access to mobile devices (ENHOGAR, 2024) and 78.6% of the population over 5 years old owns their own mobile phone that they use actively and continuously. Various national and international investigations warn that prolonged exposure to screens can negatively impact the cognitive, emotional, and social development of children and adolescents. Among the associated effects are low self-esteem, social isolation, concentration difficulties, sleep disorders, and a higher risk of online violence and sexual harassment. Faced with this context, the British Embassy in Santo Domingo and Save the Children Dominicana have joined forces to promote the safe and appropriate use of mobile devices, while preventing and addressing the risks linked to mental health and the overall well-being of children.

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During her opening remarks, the British ambassador highlighted the collaboration between the United Kingdom and the Dominican Republic in this area, underlining the value of joint work and the union of efforts.

“Looking ahead, I reaffirm the United Kingdom’s commitment to continue working alongside allies from the Dominican government, academia, and civil society, many of whom are present here, to continue promoting mental health and the protection of the most vulnerable groups,” he stated.

As part of the commitment of both institutions, and with the support of more than 40 national experts in mental health, representatives of the education sector and families from various territories of the country, two practical guides were developed aimed at: • Parents and caregivers • Teachers and school counselors These guides offer clear and accessible information on warning signs, usage guidelines by age group, recommendations for progressive access, as well as playful and educational alternatives that promote comprehensive development away from screens. The guides will be distributed through digital versions for public access and in printed versions for schools, parent associations, as well as through the INDOTEL and other public and private institutions. The initiative seeks to strengthen the capacities of families and the education system to actively and consciously accompany the digital lives of children and adolescents, promoting safer, healthier, and more protective digital environments.