(DDM) — In a joint effort to safeguard young people from online dangers, Canada and Vietnam have launched a digital literacy and prevention initiative aimed at tackling online exploitation and promoting responsible internet use.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that nearly 300 young participants convened this week at the Embassy of Canada to Vietnam for the ThinkB4UClick program, a collaborative project between #CanadaInVietnam and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Vietnam.
The initiative seeks to equip youth with skills to identify online risks, protect themselves from exploitation, and engage more safely in the digital space.
Participants were guided through workshops and interactive sessions that explored online grooming, data privacy, and the psychological impacts of digital threats.
Speaking at the event, officials from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to fostering digital resilience among young internet users, stressing the importance of proactive education in preventing exploitation before it occurs.
“The ThinkB4UClick campaign empowers young people to make informed digital choices,” said Ambassador of Canada to Vietnam, noting that digital literacy is essential in today’s technology-driven society.
DDM learned that the program also promotes youth-led prevention strategies, encouraging participants to become advocates for online safety within their schools and communities.
According to IOM Vietnam, online exploitation remains a growing global concern, with young people among the most vulnerable targets.
By improving awareness and access to preventive tools, the partnership aims to reduce risks associated with human trafficking, cyberbullying, and online scams.
Canada’s involvement underscores its broader commitment to building safe and inclusive digital environments worldwide, aligning with the country’s global advocacy for human rights and youth protection.
The Embassy of Canada emphasized that the collaboration with Vietnam will continue beyond the ThinkB4UClick event, with future programs planned to expand digital safety education to schools, universities, and rural communities across the country.
The ThinkB4UClick initiative represents a powerful model of international cooperation, combining technology, education, and youth empowerment to create a safer online future for all.