Empowering Children in the Digital Age: The Necessity of A Rights-based Platform Regulation

This dissertation examines the efficacy of regulatory frameworks for digital platforms in protecting children's rights, aiming to maximize their benefits from the digital environment while minimizing potential harms. Using a doctrinal review approach, it focuses on international agreements, EU and UK regulations, and relevant scholarly works, with special emphasis on privacy and data protection rights.Chapter 1 outlines international agreements like the UNCRC and General Comment No. 25 of 2021 to establish a foundation for understanding children's rights in the digital age. Chapters 2 and 3 critically examine potential rights violations and existing regulations. Despite theoretical safeguards, practical challenges persist due to insufficient consideration of children's best interests and holistic development.Chapter 4 highlights the need for a rights-centered regulatory framework for children. Evaluating regulations through the lens of children's rights, the dissertation assesses their effectiveness in creating a safe digital environment.