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Commemoration of the International Day of Girls in ICTs in Guatemala

Guatemala, April 28, 2023. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) through the Global Programme on Cybercrime commemorated in Guatemala the International Day of Girls in Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) with an activity in which 100 girls and adolescents from different schools in the country participated. The activity was developed in coordination with the Ministry of Education, ETC Iberoamerica, the Ministry of the Interior, and the Secretariat against Sexual Violence, Exploitation and Trafficking in Persons of Guatemala.

The girls and adolescents participated in workshops on robotics, 3D technology, cybercrime prevention and cybersecurity. In addition, the activity was an opportunity to learn about the safe and responsible use of information and communication technologies. The main objective of this activity was to empower girls and adolescents, reinforcing their self-esteem for an integral development and to develop technological and cybersecurity skills.

Empowering girls in the use of ICTs is of vital importance as it provides them with the necessary tools to fully participate in the ever-growing digital economy. ICTs are a key tool for education, personal development and active participation in society, therefore, access to technology and its effective use is essential to ensure that girls have equal opportunities and fully enjoy their rights.

Today, the Internet is a powerful tool that has revolutionized the way we communicate, work and relate to the world. However, along with the benefits of the Internet, there are also risks and dangers that can affect people, especially girls. Therefore, it is essential that girls are aware of the dangers that inhabit the Internet and know how to protect themselves.

Through these activities UNODC and the Government of Canada reaffirm their commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of girls and adolescents in the use of ICTs. This activity is an example of how technologies can be a tool for the inclusion and integral development of children and youth.