TikTok Assembles Global Teen Team to Prioritize Youth Safety and Wellbeing

In a move designed to prioritize the safety and well-being of its young users, TikTok announced the launch of its Global Youth Council today. This diverse group of 15 teenagers, aged 15-18, hails from various countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, Indonesia, Ireland, Kenya, Mexico, and Morocco. Partnering with cybersecurity experts Praesidio Safeguarding, TikTok aims to leverage the Council's unique perspective to shape a safer and more inclusive platform for young creators.

The Council's formation comes after a series of meetings, with their first convening in December 2023. Notably, the second meeting included participation from TikTok CEO, Zhou Shouzi, highlighting the company's commitment to youth voices.

The Council has already proposed impactful initiatives, including:

• Refining the TikTok Youth Portal: The Council will provide crucial input on the redesign of the platform's dedicated youth safety resource.

• Transparency in Reporting: The Council has requested clearer information on the outcomes of user actions like reporting and blocking, empowering young users to take control of their online experience.

• Combating Misinformation: Building on discussions at the first meeting, the Council champions educational campaigns like the upcoming "media literacy" initiative in the US. This program will equip users to identify disinformation, AI-generated content, and navigate online challenges effectively.

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The United States, a key market for TikTok, houses a significant portion of the app's teenage user base. This initiative underscores TikTok's commitment to addressing the specific needs and concerns of this demographic, ensuring a positive and safe online space for young creators to flourish.