Michael Tunks

Head of Policy and Public Affairs Internet Watch Foundation

Michael joined the IWF in September 2017 and is the IWF’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs. He is responsible for delivering the IWF’s public affairs strategy and participates in various policy platforms in the UK, EU and at international level representing the IWF with decision makers. He is an observer to the Council of Europe’s Lanzarote Committee and helped secured core participant status for the IWF and represented them at the UK’s Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse. He has worked on the preparation for the UK’s Online Safety Bill, the EU’s temporary derogation from the e-privacy directive and has worked on several of the workstreams through the World Economic Forum’s Global Coalition for Digital Safety. Prior to working at the IWF Michael worked as a Senior Policy Officer in UK Law Enforcement and advised on Emergency Service Collaboration for the UK National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC). Michael has also worked in local government and began his career working in the UK Parliament as a Researcher to a Member of Parliament. Michael is a graduate of the University of Essex.

Conference Day One - Wednesday 13th March 2024

11:00 AM PANEL DISCUSSION: Tangible Steps to Protect Children from Online Harms

As reflected in the latest regulation, Child Safety is paramount for Trust & Safety professionals, but is our current approach suited to the evolving digital landscape? Join us for an insightful panel discussion that delves into tangible steps to protect children from modern online harms.

  • Exploring and tackling online harms affecting children’s safety across platforms
  • Is the current approach to child safety working? Where do we need to make changes?
  • Using technology to combat abuse, exploitation, and grooming
  • Ensure age-appropriate content and features for children across digital platforms.
  • Discuss the role of parental controls and digital literacy programs in protecting children online.
  • The importance of collaboration among tech companies, educators, and policymakers in creating a safer online environment for children.

3:45 PM PANEL DISCUSSION: Managing Your Organisation Through Local & Global Regulation – Operations, Compliance, Policy & Technology

One of the premier, multifaceted challenges for Trust & Safety leaders today is navigating the intricate and ever-evolving landscape of local and global regulations. Balancing the demands of compliance, operational efficiency, policy development, and technological adaptation in a world where regulatory frameworks can vary widely is a critical task. In this panel discussion, we bring together experts to explore the complex web of challenges that Trust & Safety leaders face in maintaining a safe and compliant digital environment, protecting users online whilst simultaneously preserving trust and privacy.

  • Examine the evolving landscape of regulatory frameworks impacting the online space, from the Online Safety Bill, Digital Services Act, Digital Markets Act to CCPA and COPPA in the US, and beyond.
  • Discuss strategies for aligning operations with regulatory requirements, encompassing content moderation, data protection, and transparency.
  • Best practices for policy alignment and adaptation in response to evolving regulations.
  • Analysing your technology stack and operational processes in line with regulatory requirements.

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Michael.

Download The Latest Agenda