In addition to general rules applicable to all users, the code specifies guidelines for five groups: parents, caregivers, and teachers; general internet users; media organizations and content creators; internet service providers and platform operators; and children themselves.

A representative from the Authority of Information Security under the MIC stated to VietNamNet that this code was developed with reference to international practices in child online protection, as well as existing frameworks for codes of conduct.

The initiative also stems from real-world cases and the gaps between current online safety practices and legal frameworks for protecting children in Vietnam’s digital space.

By establishing norms for language, behavior, and interaction on the internet, the code aims to foster a safe, healthy, and civilized online environment. It emphasizes protecting children while encouraging them to engage in positive and creative online interactions.

The code also seeks to raise societal awareness of the risks children face online and highlights the responsibilities of parents, caregivers, teachers, and the wider community in collectively safeguarding children on the internet.

Moreover, it aims to promote reporting and notification of harmful content and child exploitation online to relevant authorities.

Speaking to VietNamNet on January 24, Ngo Tuan Anh, Vice President of the Vietnam Information Security Association (VNISA) and Chair of the Vietnamese Children’s Online Protection Club, described the code as a much-needed step to enhance awareness and knowledge about child protection online. He added that it would help adjust the behavior of various stakeholders in the current digital landscape.

Vietnam has previously implemented legal frameworks and regulations to protect children online, such as the Law on Children and the program to support safe and creative online interaction for children from 2021 to 2025.

More recently, Government Decree No. 147 introduced measures for managing internet services and information on the web, with provisions focused on safeguarding children in the digital space.

Tightening control over information and content provided to children

According to Ngo Tuan Anh, the code of conduct targets five specific groups to ensure participants in the digital space understand their roles and responsibilities. These rules emphasize respect for children’s privacy and safety.

The code aims to adjust the behavior of not only children, parents, and guardians but also organizations and businesses that provide internet services, platforms, and content. With widespread dissemination, it can foster societal consensus to collectively build a positive and healthy online environment for children.

To ensure the code’s practical implementation, Ngo Tuan Anh stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns alongside stricter enforcement mechanisms for organizations and businesses that provide internet services and digital content.

The Vietnamese Children’s Online Protection Club has already initiated promotional activities about the code among its members. The club has also incorporated the code into its 2025 activity plan, embedding its guidelines into awareness campaigns through accessible and effective communication channels.

Additionally, capacity-building training programs on online child protection will be conducted in depth through localized projects in schools and communities.

“In 2025, by collaborating with organizations and enterprises, we will also introduce more solutions, services, and content to help create a safer and healthier online environment for children,” Ngo Tuan Anh added.

Van Anh