Mexico City, March 19 – Morena Deputy Pedro Haces Lago has introduced a legislative proposal in the Mexico City Congress aimed at strengthening the protection of children and adolescents on digital platforms and in video games such as Roblox, Fortnite, and Minecraft. The initiative seeks to combat the increasing incidence of cyberbullying and sextortion targeting minors.
Proposed Reforms to Safeguard Minors Online
The proposal calls for amendments to Article 88 of the Law on the Rights of Girls, Boys, and Adolescents. The primary objective is to establish secure internet access as an operational obligation of the State, to be achieved through concrete actions focused on the prevention, detection, and handling of digital violence.
Digital Violence: A Growing Threat to Children
During the presentation, Haces Lago highlighted that online risks have become an integral part of children’s daily lives. He emphasized the deceptive sense of security that parents might feel, stating, “A child is at home, seemingly in a safe environment, but behind the screen, the reality can be very different.”
The legislator presented alarming statistics underscoring the urgency of the situation:
- One in four young people aged 12 to 17 has experienced cyberbullying.
- Cases of sextortion against minors surged by over 56% between 2023 and 2025.
These illicit activities encompass threats, offensive messages, and digital manipulation, all of which inflict genuine psychological harm on young victims.
Video Games and Social Networks: “Lawless Territories”
Haces Lago stressed that his proposal is a direct response to genuine societal concerns, particularly from parents, regarding the dangers prevalent on digital platforms. He clarified, “This is not an impromptu initiative… it responds to what is happening in video games like Roblox, Fortnite, or Minecraft, where unscrupulous adults target minors.”
He further affirmed that the initiative does not aim to prohibit or restrict technology usage but rather to establish clear safety conditions for its deployment. The goal is to ensure a secure online environment without impeding technological access.
From Discourse to Action: Making Protection Effective
A key aspect of the reform is to transform existing legislation into an effective mechanism. Haces Lago emphasized, “We want protection to cease being an abstract concept and become an operational obligation of the State.”
The reform intends for authorities to implement:
- Prevention protocols
- Risk detection systems
- Timely assistance for victims
The legislator concluded with an urgent appeal for proactive measures, stating, “If we do not legislate today, tomorrow we will do so from a position of crisis.” This underscores the critical need for immediate action to prevent future harm.
Broader Implications and Context
This initiative comes amidst a growing global concern regarding the safety of minors online. As digital interactions become more pervasive, legislative bodies worldwide are grappling with how to best protect vulnerable populations from emerging threats such as cyberbullying, online predation, and financial exploitation.
The proposed reforms in Mexico City reflect a commitment to adapting legal frameworks to the evolving digital landscape. By focusing on prevention, detection, and victim support, the legislation aims to create a more secure online environment, allowing children to engage with digital platforms and video games without undue risk.
The move also highlights the increasing recognition of the role of government in regulating digital spaces, particularly when it pertains to the well-being of its youngest citizens. It sets a precedent for how cities and nations might approach the complex challenges posed by the intersection of technology and child safety.
Source: publimetro.com.mx
