By Michalis Hadjipantela*
Minors safety across the internet sphere is a consideration now becoming of increasing concern on the public agenda, with many countries in the process of either debating or implementing restrictions when it comes to internet and social media use. The issue has come under the EU microscope, with the European Parliament prioritising minors protection from web dangers. In a recent decision, garnering 73% of the vote, the EP called on the Commission to push forward a relevant legislative framework.
Proposals include:
- Children under 13 across EU member-states not allowed access on social media platforms, video sharing or 'AI companions'
- Children between 13-16 using the aforementioned services following parental or guardian approval.
The European Parliament also focused on protecting minors from darker internet practices, such as algorithms, creating and maintaining the phenomenon of addiction and overexposure to platforms.
EP supports the establishment of a unified age verification system, including a European digital identity wallet, prohibiting certain sites not conforming with relevant EU regulations and the virtual purchase of coins or players on FIFA point-Robox. It also calls for application design in a manner that doesn't cause stress or insomnia in children through the ise of explosions, violent scenes and extreme colour brightness. The EP further proposes the prohibition of storing and processing children's personal data.
But a particular focus is additionally placed on responsibility, providing relevant information and training all bodies, thus promoting collective accountability. To this end, amongst other actions, the European Parliament encourages the introduction of digital education classes but also training parents, guardians and teachers to support their children in the digital world. Platforms are also encouraged to create parental control tools and securing the possibility of reporting problematic content.
It's a significant move but does, nevertheless remain just a non-binding resolution, we therefore need to take the next step. Pushing through for a binding European Commission regulation.
It has to be made clear that the European Parliament does not mean to exclude children from the internet and its important developmental tools in the fields of education, information or communication. The goal here is the create a safety net and ensure that their access to the digital world takes place in secure conditions.
The EP is also sending a clear message to both platforms and EU member-states that lawless practices and recklesness will no longer be tolerated.
Digital developments are transforming our world, changing habits and daily lives. Right through from communication and socialising to the way we receive information and purchase products.
Within such a framework, this EP decision is a decisive and necessary step in forging a secure digital world for our children, so they can benefit by the endless digital and technological opportunities, while equally minimising risks.
As MEPs, we need to work towards securing that this resolution moves forward in the direction of a binding decision.
* MEP EPP-DISY