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Casablanca — Morocco’s National Human Rights Council (CNDH) has released a new illustrated story collection aimed at helping children navigate the digital world more safely, as part of activities held during the International Publishing and Book Fair in Rabat.
The series was presented at the “Rights Pavilion,” targeting children and teenagers with simple, visual storytelling drawn from everyday online experiences. It explores how digital spaces can offer learning and creativity, while also exposing young users to risks like exploitation, misinformation, addiction, and privacy breaches.
Across its pages, the collection follows fictional but familiar scenarios. In one story, a young girl shares her artwork online and is tricked into giving away personal data, leading to identity theft. In another, a boy becomes overly attached to an AI chatbot, mistaking it for real companionship before realizing its limits.
Other stories tackle excessive gaming, unsafe links, and the pressure created by unrealistic beauty standards promoted online. These narratives are paired with lessons about protecting personal information, questioning what is seen online, and asking for help when something feels wrong.
The initiative comes as concerns grow over children’s exposure to harmful digital content, as 41% of children encounter misleading information online, while 35% have been exposed to discriminatory or shocking content. Around 22% report uncomfortable contact with strangers, with girls more likely to face such interactions. The figures also point to the widespread use of AI tools among teenagers and rising anxiety linked to digital experiences.
Amina Bouayach, president of the council, said the digital space is no longer just a tool for communication or entertainment, but an extension of where rights and freedoms are exercised. She noted that while technology opens doors for expression, learning, and participation, it also brings real threats to children’s safety, mental health, and personal data.
The project was developed through a participatory process involving children from across Morocco. Dozens of workshops and consultations allowed them to shape the themes, characters, and scenarios, turning their own experiences into stories meant to resonate with their peers. The illustrations were later produced by artist Youssef Rahhali, with support from the European Union as part of a broader partnership.
The council says the goal is not to alarm, but to build digital awareness early. By combining storytelling with practical guidance, the collection encourages children to think critically, verify information, and use technology responsibly.
The books were introduced through interactive readings and workshops held throughout the fair, creating space for direct engagement with young audiences. Through this approach, the council is betting on creative formats to make conversations about digital rights more accessible, and harder to ignore.
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