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Ulaanbaatar, 2 April 2025 – UN Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation and Communications, convened a Multi-Stakeholder Discussion on ‘Youth Online Safety’ to address the rising concerns of cyberbullying and digital threats facing Mongolia’s youth. The event brought together youth representatives, government officials, civil society, educators, and tech industry leaders to discuss strategies to build a safer, more inclusive digital environment for children and adolescents.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of new survey findings from UNDP, revealing that over 51% of Mongolian youth have experienced cyberbullying, with insults and defamation cited as the most common forms. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for a coordinated national response to protect youth online and promote mental health and well-being.
In her opening remarks, Honorable Nominchimeg Odsuren, Member of Parliament of Mongolia, said “Protecting our youth online is not optional, it is a policy priority. We must embed digital safety into our national education, technology, and legal systems to ensure every young person can grow up safe and empowered in the digital age.”
During the discussion, a panel discussion was held with government leaders, mental health professionals, social media influencers, and youth advocates on practical solutions, best practices, and key policy reforms to improve online safety.
This discussion is part of UNDP’s broader digital inclusion agenda, which aims to promote digital equity, uphold human rights, and support the development of inclusive and responsible digital ecosystems. Central to this effort is a whole-of-society approach that ensures all stakeholders including government, civil society, private sector, and youth have a voice in shaping safer digital infrastructure, school-based digital literacy programs, and effective regulatory frameworks for responsible online behavior.
Ms. Matilda Dimovska, UNDP Resident Representative in Mongolia, emphasized the importance of inclusive digital development and stated, “Digital transformation must be human-centered, inclusive, and safe. We cannot afford to leave the youth behind in this digital era. UNDP is committed to working hand-in-hand with the youth, government, civil society, and the private sector to combat cyberbullying and ensure that Mongolia’s digital future empowers and protects its youth.”
The event concluded with a strong sense of shared responsibility and collaboration among all participants. Stakeholders from the government, civil society, the private sector, and international organizations agreed to work more closely together to tackle online safety challenges. There was a clear commitment to take action, particularly in educational institutions, on digital platforms, and through policy reforms to reduce the risks of cyberbullying.
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About UNDP
UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet.
For further inquiries:
Erdenesukh Otgonbayar | Communications Analyst | UNDP in Mongolia | erdenesukh.otgonbayar@undp.org
