Prince Harry and Meghan Markle unveil plans to safeguard children from AI dangers

This is a national nonprofit focused on advocating for families and online safety.

According to People, the two groups are teaming up to increase parental support and lobby for greater legislation to protect children from AI.

The Sussexes have been researching the rapidly changing landscape for the next generation of children, particularly as chatbots become increasingly popular.

ParentsTogether have released studies showing that when investigators posed as children on AI chatbot platforms, they experienced harmful interactions every five minutes.

In 2022, the Parents' Network was launched to assist US families who had lost a child to suicide after they were struggling on social media platforms.

The news of the partnership came as Prince Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, were honoured at a New York award ceremony on Thursday evening.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were named "Humanitarians of the Year" at Project Healthy Minds' World Mental Health Day Gala.

In a statement, the Archewell Foundation's co-executive directors, James Holt and Shauna Nep, said: "When we launched The Parents' Network, we were among the few voices calling attention to the devastating impact of social media and emerging technologies on young people.

"Today, the landscape has transformed dramatically.

"Legislation is emerging across the country, more families are coming forward with their stories, and the urgency of this moment is undeniable.

"This connection with ParentsTogether ensures our community has the infrastructure, advocacy power, and resources needed to meet this critical moment in protecting our children."

Ailen Arreaza, executive director of ParentsTogether, said: "The Parents’ Network families have courageously shared their stories to prevent other families from experiencing similar tragedies.

"By joining forces, we’re combining their powerful, growing network with our legislative expertise, national organising reach, and our impact media platforms to drive public awareness and the comprehensive reforms this moment demands."

Meghan stepped out in New York wearing head-to-toe Armani as she walked hand-in-hand with Prince Harry.

Speaking on stage, the duchess said: "Our children, Archie and Lili, are just six and four years old.

"Luckily, still too young for social media, but we know that day is coming.

"Like so many parents, we think constantly about how to embrace technology's benefits, while safeguarding against its dangers.

"That hopeful intention of separation is rapidly becoming impossible."

Anyone who is in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide can call the Samaritans anonymously for free from a UK phone on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org.