Uzbekistan is exploring new ways to strengthen safety in the digital space following talks in the United States between Digital Technologies Minister Sherzod Shermatov and Lou Erdely, chief technology officer of Canadian company «Netsweeper». The meeting focused on practical tools for reducing harmful online content and building a safer internet environment, with particular attention given to the protection of children and young people. The discussion reflects a broader trend in which governments are looking for more precise and technologically advanced methods to respond to online risks without disrupting access to useful digital services.
One of the central topics was the possible phased introduction of content filtering systems in schools and higher education institutions. Such systems are typically designed to limit access to dangerous or inappropriate material on educational networks, while still allowing students and teachers to use legitimate online resources. For Uzbekistan, this approach could become part of a wider strategy to make educational institutions safer digital environments, especially as internet access becomes more deeply integrated into classroom learning, research and student communication.
The sides also examined the use of artificial intelligence for classifying information and identifying potentially harmful content at an early stage. This direction is increasingly important because the scale of digital information makes manual moderation alone ineffective. AI-based tools can help sort large volumes of data, flag risky material faster and support more targeted responses. At the same time, such systems require careful calibration to reduce errors, ensure transparency and avoid unjustified restrictions on lawful content. That is why the issue is not only technological, but also institutional and legal.
Another part of the talks dealt with network-level content management solutions for telecommunications operators. These technical mechanisms may allow providers to respond more effectively to threats spreading across digital channels and help prevent the circulation of harmful information before it reaches large audiences. In practice, this means online safety measures may be considered not only at the level of individual users or institutions, but also within the wider communications infrastructure. This points to a more systemic model of digital protection, in which schools, regulators, service providers and technology firms all play a role.
The participants also exchanged views on compliance with current legal requirements and the protection of user interests. This aspect is especially important because internet regulation often raises questions about balance: authorities seek to limit harmful material, while citizens expect lawful, fair and transparent treatment online. According to the issues discussed, any future implementation would need to align with legislation, operate openly and meet international security standards. The sides emphasized that effective cooperation between institutions will be essential if such systems are to function reliably and gain public trust.
Beyond technical filtering tools, the meeting highlighted digital literacy and cyber culture as long-term priorities. Officials and experts increasingly recognize that technology alone cannot fully solve online safety problems. Young users, in particular, need practical knowledge about how to identify risks, protect personal data, avoid manipulation and behave responsibly on the internet. For that reason, the discussions also covered plans for training programs, educational initiatives and joint efforts aimed at promoting responsible internet use.
This broader educational dimension may prove just as important as any technological solution. If implemented effectively, training sessions and awareness programs could help create a culture in which users themselves become more resilient to online threats. For Uzbekistan, the negotiations suggest an attempt to combine infrastructure, regulation and education into a single digital safety agenda. That model could help the country address immediate concerns about harmful content while also building stronger long-term habits of online responsibility among the younger generation.
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