Qatar Reviews Draft Law for Children Digital Protection

The Qatari Cabinet, chaired by H.E. Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al Thani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, convened its weekly meeting on June 17, 2026, at the Amiri Diwan to address critical legislative developments regarding online safety.

A primary focus of the session was the Shura Council's proposal for a draft law dedicated to Child Digital Protection. During the proceedings, the Cabinet reviewed the submission and decided to refer the proposal to the relevant authorities for a comprehensive review and the subsequent submission of a detailed report.

Aiming to Shield Minors Online

The proposed legislation is designed to regulate how users under the age of sixteen interact with digital platforms. In an era where digital engagement is ubiquitous for young people, the law seeks to establish "appropriate means" to manage these interactions safely.

Key objectives of the draft law include:

• Strengthening Risk Mitigation: Implementing robust measures to identify and address digital risks facing minors.
• Ensuring Digital Safety: Creating a safer online environment specifically tailored to the developmental needs of children.
• Regulated Interaction: Establishing clear frameworks for how digital platforms must engage with user profiles identified as being under 16.

The decision to refer the matter back to relevant authorities for further study indicates a thorough approach to finalizing the legislation. This process will likely involve consultations with technical experts, child welfare specialists, and legal advisors to ensure the final bill effectively balances protection with accessibility while aligning with Qatar's broader Vision 2030 goals for a safe and advanced digital society.

The Amiri Diwan confirmed that the next steps will focus on compiling findings from the review process before any final legislative action is taken.