Young livestreamers spark debate on ethics, regulation

Guidance, suggestions

Given livestreaming and shortvideo hosting have become new professions that college students, and even young children, are eager to try, Zheng, from the Communication University of China, said online platforms need to implement identity verification of users, which is a regulatory and legal requirement.

"Stricter verification must be conducted while providing the account registration service to youngsters aged 16 and 18, and consent from their parents or other guardians must also be obtained," she said.

Ma said university and college students need to be prudent in their livestreams. If they engage in illegal activities and are punished, it could potentially impact their future employment and career prospects, she said.

Schools should also strengthen guidance and education for students, such as educating youngsters on legal boundaries and setting rules for the time, location and manner of their livestreaming, while encouraging high-quality content, Ma said.

In addition, internet platforms should eliminate harmful information and shut down illegal accounts as quickly as possible to ensure a clean online environment.

Cyberspace regulators also need to tighten supervision by taking stronger measures to combat unacceptable behavior in livestreaming rooms, and make greater efforts to promote the healthy development of the emerging industry, she added.

Wang Xiaoyi, a lawyer from Guangzhou, Guangdong province, told Legal Daily that college students should pay more attention to protecting their legitimate rights and interests when signing contracts with livestreaming companies or online platforms.

College students who aspire to work as livestreaming hosts should not only focus on making money, but also be aware of the mental burden and potential health risks that may arise from long hours of continuous streaming, she said.

Wang called on industry associations, social organizations, and businesses to promote self-management of the industry to achieve healthy growth.

caoyin@chinadaily.com.cn