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Australia Social Media Ban For Under 16’s Slammed

Australia Social Media Ban For Under 16's Slammed
Nov 29 2024 Share

Australia’s new law banning children under 16 from social media has sparked criticism from platforms like Meta, Snapchat, and TikTok, citing rushed legislation and unclear enforcement methods.

The law, passed on Thursday, imposes fines of up to AU$49.5 million (€30.5 million, $32 million) on platforms failing to prevent underage users from holding accounts.

Meta criticised the process for ignoring evidence and youth voices, while Snapchat raised concerns about privacy, safety, and practicality.

TikTok warned the ban could drive young users to unregulated online spaces, exposing them to greater risks.

Despite these objections, Australia’s major parties backed the ban. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended it, emphasising the need for children to focus on outdoor activities and stating, “We’ve got your back” to Australian parents.

A trial for enforcement methods will begin in January, with the ban taking full effect in a year. Platforms cannot require government-issued IDs, and violations won’t penalise users or parents.

Critics, including Green Party Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, called the law outdated and disconnected from young people’s online habits. Digital industry body DIGI also demanded clarity on enforcement.

Globally, the move reflects a growing trend, with countries like Spain, France, and China implementing or proposing similar restrictions to protect minors online.

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Three Diplomats Present Credentials to President of Malta

Three Diplomats Present Credentials to President of Malta
Nov 29 2024 Share

President Myriam Spiteri Debono welcomed two new non-resident Ambassadors and a non-resident High Commissioner  at the Presidential Palace in Valletta, where they formally presented their credentials.

The diplomats include Lauri Bambus, Ambassador of Estonia; Christophe Paul Schiltz, Ambassador of Luxembourg; and Fredrick Lusambili Matwang’a, High Commissioner of Kenya.

During their meeting, Ambassador Bambus discussed recent geopolitical developments with President Spiteri Debono, highlighting Estonia’s perspectives on global issues. Ambassador Schiltz explored the shared values between Malta and Luxembourg, emphasising both nations’ active roles within the European Union.

High Commissioner Matwang’a focused on opportunities for deeper collaboration between Malta and Kenya, particularly in sectors such as maritime affairs, tourism, and the blue economy. He also stressed the importance of strengthening ties within the Commonwealth and the United Nations.

President Myriam Spiteri Debono congratulated the three diplomats on their new roles and encouraged them to visit Malta regularly to build on the existing partnerships. She expressed Malta’s commitment to nurturing its relationships with Estonia, Luxembourg, and Kenya.

These meetings underscore Malta’s role in fostering international collaboration through diplomacy and shared values.

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‘Festa Family Tal-Milied’: A Family Celebration This December

‘Festa Family Tal-Milied’: A Family Celebration This December
Nov 29 2024 Share

Local families are being called for a special celebration on the 7th and 8th of December as ‘Festa Familja tal-Milied’ (Christmas Family Celebration) will be being held in Ta’ Qali.

The festivities will include everything from games for children and their guardians to musical spectacles, and not to mention food and drink!

The feast will be taking place in the Ta Qali National Park Concert Zone between noon and 1700hrs.

Tag someone to go with you!

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MEIA Welcomes Malta Film Commission Ministry Shift

MEIA Welcomes Malta Film Commission Ministry Shift
Nov 29 2024 Share

The Malta Entertainment Industry and Arts Association (MEIA) has responded to the recent announcement of the Malta Film Commission’s transfer from the Ministry of Tourism to the Ministry of National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government. MEIA expressed surprise at the decision, which followed shortly after their previous statement, but views the shift as a potentially positive development for the industry.

The organisation welcomed the move, citing the opportunity for a more unified approach to the governance of Malta’s film sector. “By aligning the Malta Film Commission with the Ministry of National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government, we anticipate a more integrated strategy that can better support the diverse needs of the industry,” MEIA stated. The association hopes this transition will reduce fragmentation within the sector and encourage collaboration among stakeholders.

However, MEIA reiterated its concerns regarding governance, transparency, communication, and accountability within the Malta Film Commission, emphasising the need for these elements to build trust among industry stakeholders. The association also called for addressing the issues raised in the National Audit Office (NAO) report.

MEIA expressed its willingness to collaborate with Minister Owen Bonnici, highlighting his leadership’s importance in addressing current challenges and implementing reforms. The association sees open dialogue and collaboration as critical to overcoming obstacles and creating a sustainable framework for film production in Malta.

Additionally, MEIA underlined the need for a comprehensive national Screen Policy, aiming to establish guidelines that promote equity between domestic and international productions. They also pledged to continue working with Arts Council Malta for the effective implementation of the Domestic Screen Fund.

In conclusion, MEIA views the transfer as a step towards strengthening Malta’s film industry and remains committed to advocating for reforms and contributing to its long-term development.

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