Children’s rights at the heart of the upcoming Action Plan against Cyberbullying
Eurochild co-signs the Joint Statement by CRAG - the Child Rights Action Group.
In recent years, the European Union has made significant efforts to protect and promote children’s rights online. These include implementing the Better Internet for Kids Strategy and recently adopting the Guidelines on the protection of minors under the Digital Services Act. However, online risks persist, and a robust, holistic and child-centred approach is needed to tackle them.
Cyberbullying can take many forms, such as insults, spreading rumours, posting offensive and humiliating photos and videos, and is often more vicious because offenders can hide behind digital identities. For many children, the emotional toll is long-lasting and can contribute to social isolation, academic decline, and an increased risk of grooming, exploitation, and disappearance.
Key recommendations for the European Commission
- Strong prevention by empowering the whole community surrounding the child
- Adequate and age-appropriate reporting and redress mechanisms
- Access to inclusive, trauma-informed and age-appropriate victim support services
The Action Plan should action Member States, enable civil society organisations and urge online platforms to proactively protect children from cyberbullying.
Further information
