War against UkraineProtect children from explicit images of war
The state media authorities have received reports of violations of human dignity and the protection of minors in connection with the war in Ukraine. These are currently being investigated. The Commission for the Protection of Minors in the Media (KJM) calls for the protection of children and young people to be taken into account in media reporting and for minors to be protected from explicit recordings - especially of dead bodies.
According to the KJM, many media are handling current events responsibly. In some cases, however, images have been reported where there is an initial suspicion of a violation of human dignity.
Citizens who would like to report problematic content to the KJM can do so with just a few clicks on the KJM website. Incoming reports are carefully reviewed. In the event of violations of the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Minors in the Media (JMStV), the KJM takes measures such as fines and prohibitions.
How can we protect children from explicit images of war?
Age-appropriate news
Above all, children need access to age-appropriate news content. A compilation of good choices can be found in the infographic below. Adult news can easily overwhelm and frighten children. Parents and teachers should keep in touch with children and young people about what they have seen in the media. It is often enough to ask interested questions and offer to be a discussion partner.
Child-friendly search engines
Unfortunately, drastic portrayals of the war in Ukraine can also be found on the Internet. It is important for younger children to have age-appropriate access to the Internet. When searching for information, for example, children should use children's search engines such as Frag Finn and Blinde Kuh. This is because the common search engines for adults show problematic search results even with strict SafeSearch settings.
Reporting options
Finally, it can help to teach children and young people that they can defend themselves. For example, anyone who is confronted with disturbing content on social media can report this content to the service and thus protect others from this unpleasant experience. The saferinternet.at guides provide instructions on how to report content for all major social media services. Complaints can be made to jugendschutz.net and the Internet Complaints Office. Offer younger children that you can help with a report if it doesn't work yet on your own.
klicksafe materials for parents and educators
You will find many other helpful tips on the subject in our info sheets. The "Media Education" info sheet is aimed at parents and guardians. The "Media Competence" info sheet contains information for educational professionals.
