US First Lady Melania Trump has called for adults to 'take the lead' in encouraging children to develop 'positive habits with social media and technology'. In a speech addressing the challenges faced by children, she urged adults to promote values of 'encouragement, kindness, compassion, and respect' online.
However, many took to social media to question the extent to which her husband, President Donald Trump, adheres to these principles in his own online interactions. President Trump has previously faced criticism for using Twitter to launch personal attacks and share inflammatory content.
In light of her husband's Twitter habits, some people online characterised the first lady's comments as 'ironic', while others suggested Mrs Trump is in denial. Comments urged her to reform the president's social media behaviour before focusing on American children.
While the vast majority of reaction was mocking, some received Mrs Trump's words more warmly. This is not the first time she has been ridiculed for highlighting online safety and ethics, which she set as a key priority in 2017.
Lauren Hogg, a survivor of the recent school shooting in Florida, called on the first lady to 'have a convo' with her stepson Donald Trump Jr., who liked social media posts accusing Lauren's brother David of being an FBI stooge.
Mrs Trump has also faced criticism for her own social media usage. In December, she posted a selfie with a Snapchat filter showing a Santa hat and reindeers, which some felt was unbecoming of a first lady.
