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#NOHARMWARE

DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP: WHAT IT IS AND WHY IT MATTERS

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SAFER ONLINE PLATFORMS START WITH PEOPLE, AND SYSTEMS.

Every day we shape the digital spaces we use. Through what we share, how we speak, and what we demand from the platforms we rely on.

It can be easy to forget that our online actions can have consequences in the offline world.

This calls for us to understand what digital citizenship is, why it matters, and how each of us play a role in shaping the online world.

At the Coalition for Better Digital Policy, we believe everyone deserves digital spaces where people are treated with respect, kept safe from scams, and can access the information they need.

WHO WE ARE

Coalition for Better Digital Policy is a diverse group of people and community organisations who are concerned about online harm.

We have a particular focus on harm occurring on online platforms due to the impact this is having on targeted individuals and communities, as well as society as a whole.

Our vision is to see the robust, inclusive, and effective use and regulation of online platforms in Aotearoa, with a focus on upholding human rights and preserving the benefits technology can provide us.

Our work is strongly relational – we are focused on connecting with and understanding what others are doing and ensuring our work builds on and supports the wider efforts of people working in this area.

Some organisations currently involved in the project include Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand, Venture Centre, Matike Online Trust, and Makes Sense.

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WHAT IS DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP?

For most Kiwis, large parts of our lives are now spent online. Every time we’re using social media, playing a multiplayer game, or leaving comments on a website, we’re taking part in a digital community.

Digital citizenship means knowing how to stay safe, act respectfully, and think critically online.

Technology, and how we use it, changes all the time. While there’s no single definition of digital citizenship, it’s about adapting to the digital world and knowing your rights and responsibilities in these spaces. Learn more about the Harmful Digital Communications Act and what it means for online behaviour with this simple explainer from Netsafe.

Everyone from kids to seniors deserves the tools and knowledge to navigate the internet in a way that benefits them and other people online.

THE CORE POU OF DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP

Respectful Communication

Treating others with kindness online, even when debating or disagreeing with someone, and knowing how to respond to cyberbullying or harmful content.

Digital literacy

Understanding how information spreads online, learning to recognise fake news and misleading content, and thinking carefully about what you share and believe.

Digital safety

Protecting your personal information, avoiding scams, threats, and harmful content, using strong passwords and secure settings.

Rights & Responsibilities

Being an active member of digital communities; knowing your rights and doing what you can to create a safer and more inclusive internet.

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DOWNLOAD OUR EASY & PRACTICAL 1-PAGERS TO SHARE WITH YOUR COMMUNITY

What is digital citizenship?

A quick explainer outlining what digital citizenship means and why it matters – Download the file here

Why digital citizenship matters for older people?

Guidance and key talking points to support older communities navigating digital spaces – Download the file here

Why digital citizenship matters for young people?

Practical insights to support rangatahi in building safe online habits – Download the file here

Why digital citizenship matters?

A broader overview for communities and organisations – Download the file here

LEARN MORE & BUILD YOUR SKILLS

Here are trusted tools and resources to help you or your whānau strengthen digital citizenship skills

GENERAL ONLINE SAFETY:

For Parents & Educators:

  • Classification Office - Resources to help parents and educators support rangatahi with media and online content
  • Keep It Real Online - A public awareness campaign to support our tamariki and rangatahi to be safe online
  • MediaSmarts - Digital literacy resources for classrooms and families
  • Common Sense Media - Reviews, lesson plans, and videos on online safety, media literacy, and tech use for all ages
  • Be Internet Awesome - An interactive learning platform for kids and families about safety and kindness online

For Young People:

  • Headspace Invaders - An interactive platform for Kiwi kids wanting to navigate the tricky stuff online
  • The Light Project - Training, resources, and support to help young people build healthy attitudes and safely respond to sexual content and online pornography
  • In The Know - A sexual and public health initiative helping young people and their families navigate the changing online sexual landscape

For Seniors & Lifelong Learners:

  • Digital Seniors NZ - In-person and online coaching on basic digital skills for older adults
  • SeniorNet - Community-led digital learning and support for over-50s

IF YOU NEED SUPPORT

If you or someone you know is experiencing online harm, cyberbullying, scams, or worrying digital behaviour, help is available.

You can:

  • Report harmful content or abuse to Netsafe (https://netsafe.org.nz, or 0508 638 723). This service is free and confidential.
  • Contact Youthline (https://youthline.co.nz, 0800 376 633, or free text 234) for free counselling and mental health support.
  • Visit Own Your Online (https://www.ownyouronline.govt.nz/) for help responding to online scams or threats.
  • If you're a parent or caregiver concerned about your child’s online activity or safety, Netsafe also offers support and resources for families.

This campaign is run jointly by Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand and Tāhono Trust