Mareva Grabovski Mitsotaki, guest of Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser at the “Wise 12 Summit” under the Qatar Foundation, addressed the urgent issue of children’s digital addiction.

“Addiction to smartphones and social media has become an epidemic threatening to rob the next generation of essential skills—socializing, focusing, and even sleeping,” she warned during her speech.

Ms. Grabovski Mitsotaki emphasized, “Constant screen interaction activates the brain’s reward system—similar to addiction—creating a cycle that’s incredibly hard for children to break. Parents feel worried and powerless.”

She stressed the urgent need for solutions: “If technology doesn’t equip parents with the tools to regain control, then we must act collectively—through public dialogue and effective policies.”

“Now is the time! Our children deserve to grow and learn—not through algorithms, bots, or endless scrolling on social media—but through real connections with classmates, family, teachers, and friends. Through books, music, play, and sports.”