Ankara digital violence panel urges media responsibility to curb cyberbullying

A panel titled “Digital Violence: Media Responsibility in Preventing Cyberbullying Among Youth” was held at the Ankara Kent Council, organized by the Turkish Internet Media Union (TİMBİR) with support from the Ministry of Interior’s Civil Society Relations Directorate and the Internet Media and IT Federation (İMEF). Speakers included TİMBİR President Dr. Süleyman Basa, who said “the digital world plays a central role in young people’s education and social life,” as well as North Cyprus media figure Ertan Birinci, who emphasized that “media is not just a news carrier but must educate youths for safe digital environments.” The discussion covered the rise of digital violence, its forms—harassment, threats, privacy violations, and more—and its impact on youth health and society. Participants highlighted the need for ethical publishing, digital citizenship education, parental guidance, and coordinated prevention programs. The event was broadcast live to over 2,000 internet news platforms and a television channel, reaching a wide audience.

The panel underscored that digital violence is now a societal and public‑health concern, calling for coordinated action by media outlets, educators, and policymakers to protect and empower young people online.