UNICEF publishes recommendations for the online gaming industry on assessing impact on children

_{These recommendations were finalized during the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of physical distancing measures around the world}

GENEVA, 16 June 2020 – UNICEF has published a set of recommendations for the online gaming industry, designed to guide and support online gaming companies through a process of incorporating child rights considerations throughout their business activities.

"The COVID 19 epidemic has shown an explosion in online gaming (among all age groups), demonstrating that gaming is a central element in 21st century leisure and entertainment," said Wivina Belmonte, Principal Advisor Partnerships, UNICEF Division of Private Fundraising and Partnerships. "As the creators of digital environments that draw time and attention of children around the world, online gaming companies have the responsibility to shape their platforms in ways that respect and support children’s rights. I hope these recommendations can help companies understand the impacts and take action to improve their performance."

The Recommendations for the Online Gaming Industry on Assessing Impact on Children – compiled with extensive inputs from the industry – highlight some of the key child rights considerations for online gaming companies of all kinds, from game developers, publishers, distributors, platforms, esports companies and streaming services. They build on a UNICEF Discussion Paper on Online Gaming and Child Rights published in 2019 and extensive engagement with the online gaming community.