BY EVELYN SASI
In this digital age, most people especially young people use technology and digital platforms for various purposes, including connecting with friends, meeting new people, online dating, and entertaining themselves. So much information is now being consumed online, which can sometimes be harmful in promoting sexual health, consent, and bodily autonomy.
According to DataReportal, in early 2024 there were 22.71 million internet users in Kenya, whereas internet penetration stood at 40.8 percent with a majority being young people. This rise in technology has made the world a global village, given people from various parts of the world can connect and communicate by simply using their smartphones at the comfort of their homes. However, digital consent has become a
growing concern due to an increase in the popularity of online platforms.
Consent, being the ability to give permission, has become a challenge especially among the young people. The lack of non-verbal cues in digital interactions can hinder the ability to give consent, which is a very important aspect in exploring sex-positivity. During these online interactions, one may misinterpret the messages, resulting in unwelcome sexual approaches or pressure detracting from positive
experiences.
Most parents have purchased smartphones for their children for a variety of reasons, including developing digital literacy and accessing academic materials. These young people, the majority of whom are under the age of 18, may be exposed to sexually explicit content due to the minimal controls imposed by internet platforms. These youths may find themselves involved in situations that violate their rights, and may lack the knowledge and awareness of Comprehensive Sexual Education to guide and protect them. While digital enterprises may have established legal frameworks, their terms and conditions may be long and difficult to understand, leaving clients vulnerable and limiting their ability to seek pleasure safely
during online interactions.
Cyber harassment is prevalent on online platforms, especially on various social media. These experiences can diminish an individual’s confidence in expressing their desires and boundaries, negatively affecting their sexual positivity. Peer pressure on social media, which may set unrealistic standards for sexual behaviors, can lead to young people engaging in actions they are uncomfortable with. The representation of casual sexual interactions online can put pressure on people to emphasize pleasure above permission, which can lead to hazardous circumstances.
For young people to have positive internet experiences, consent must be emphasized. This gives individuals the right to bodily autonomy while also shaping a good perspective regarding sexuality. While looking at various challenges that come with using the internet in this digital era, let’s also consider addressing the aspect of consent in relation to sex-positivity.
Evelyn Sasi is a Youth Advocate at NAYA Kenya
