EU Presidency event to discuss online safety for children

Ireland is hosting a high-level EU Presidency conference focused on enhancing online safety for children, with over 250 participants from 24 EU member states attending the event. The gathering includes 80 children and young people who will contribute directly to discussions on digital policy. The conference, taking place in Dublin, aims to explore ways to ensure safer internet environments for minors while incorporating youth perspectives into policymaking. Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley will open the event, emphasizing the importance of involving young people in shaping the future of digital spaces. The conference follows recent statements from Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who announced plans for the European Commission to propose measures limiting children’s access to social media platforms after the summer. These proposals include potential age restrictions designed to reduce exposure to harmful content and excessive screen time. Ireland has consistently supported such initiatives, though it has emphasized that any restrictions should ideally be implemented at the EU level rather than being decided unilaterally by individual member states. Keynote speeches will be delivered by European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath, who highlighted the value of youth input in political processes. He noted that young people often challenge assumptions and provide unique insights that can improve policy outcomes. The event will also feature contributions from leading policymakers and experts in child welfare, technology, and education, ensuring a comprehensive discussion of the topic. Participants will engage in structured dialogues on a range of issues related to online safety, including the regulation of social media algorithms, the role of parental controls, and the impact of digital content on mental health. The inclusion of 80 young Europeans in the discussions reflects a broader commitment within the EU to involve younger generations in decision-making processes that affect them directly. This approach aligns with ongoing efforts to make governance structures more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens. The conference will culminate in the production of a detailed report summarizing the recommendations made by the participating children and young people. This document will serve as a reference point for both national and European authorities working on digital policy reforms. The Irish government has indicated that it will use these findings to inform its own legislative agenda, particularly regarding the implementation of stricter online safety regulations. The event underscores Ireland’s leadership role in addressing digital challenges facing children across the EU. With increasing concerns about cyberbullying, misinformation, and the psychological effects of prolonged social media use, the need for coordinated action has become more pressing. By bringing together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, the conference seeks to foster collaboration and develop practical solutions that balance the rights of young users with the imperative to protect them from online risks. As the discussions unfold, representatives from various EU countries will share their experiences and best practices in safeguarding children online. The exchange of information is expected to highlight regional differences in approaches to digital regulation and identify areas where harmonization could be beneficial. The involvement of young people throughout the process ensures that their voices are central to shaping the policies that will govern their online experiences moving forward.