Throughout the world, the proliferation of pornography on the internet is having a profound impact on individuals of all ages, especially children and teenagers. Families struggle to shield their children from age-inappropriate material, while individuals are exposed to explicit content without their consent. The current lack of easy to use content filtering options such as safe DNS (Domain Name System) on Internet Service Providers (ISPs) exacerbates the problem, making it very hard for parents to maintain a safe online environment for their children.

If things remain unchanged, countless individuals will continue to be exposed to explicit and harmful content, risking their emotional well-being, mental health, and overall quality of life. The innocence of children will be compromised, and the development of healthy relationships and attitudes towards sexuality will be hindered. Additionally, the negative societal consequences such as addiction, exploitation, and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes will persist. It is essential that we take immediate action to address this pressing issue.

Now more than ever, we need to make it the standard that parents select the type of content they receive from their ISPs. This should be executed in a way that protects Net Neutrality, for example by establishing:

- content blocking standards. Politicians could put into place laws that would require ISPs to block access to certain adult content by default and allow users to opt-in if they choose (free of charge, to preserve Net Neutrality).

- Implement Internet filtering solutions. This would involve ISPs providing their customers the option to configure the kinds of content they want to filter out, preventing access to adult content for children, and at no extra charge.

Sign this petition to demand that politicians make it mandatory for ISPs to provide easy-to-use content filters, so that their customers can decide which kind of content can be accessed through their internet connection, enabling individuals and families to navigate the internet without being exposed to pornography if they do not want to. Together, we can create a safer digital space that promotes healthy relationships, protects vulnerable individuals, and fosters the well-being of our communities. Let's seize this opportunity to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of countless individuals and shape a better future for all.

Would you like to know more about the problem?

The effects of pornography on a young brain:

Pr. Gail Dines, on the impact of pornography on children and teenagers:

For the French-speaking people, there is this excellent in-depth debate on France5:

Scientific studies: 

- Growing Up With Porn: The Developmental and Societal Impact of Pornography on Children - Gail Dines, 2017

- The harms of pornography exposure among children and young people - Michael Flood, 2009