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These studies suggest that children are increasingly being used as digital workers on social media, creating economic value and necessitating legal protections.
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The rise of social media has transformed various aspects of society, including the dynamics of child labor. Children are increasingly featured on platforms like Instagram and short video apps, where they contribute to the economic value of their families and brands. This phenomenon raises important questions about the commercialization of childhood and the need for legal protections.
Children as Digital Capital: Children, especially infants, are used as digital capital on social media platforms like Instagram to build relationships between consumers and products, enhancing the parents' brand and commercial value .
Economic Value Creation: Children who perform on short video platforms gather fans, gain fame, and generate income, effectively becoming digital workers. Despite their significant economic contributions, they are not recognized as workers due to their minor status.
Need for Legal Frameworks: The commercialization of children on social media highlights an urgent need for legal frameworks to protect them from exploitation and ensure their rights are safeguarded .
Awareness and Education: Mass media can play a crucial role in raising awareness among parents about the implications of child labor, including its digital forms. Educating parents, especially those from poorer backgrounds, can help reduce the incidence of child labor by making them more conscious of their children's rights and the importance of education.
The use of children as digital capital on social media platforms is a growing trend that creates significant economic value but also raises ethical and legal concerns. There is a pressing need for legal frameworks to protect these young digital workers and ensure their rights are upheld. Additionally, raising awareness among parents about the implications of child labor, including its digital manifestations, is essential for safeguarding children's well-being and future.
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