European legislators have formally recognized the important role of public service media in promoting a safer cyberspace for children – an issue in sharp EBU focus.

A European Parliament (EP) Resolution on “protecting children in the digital world”, passed on November 20, “acknowledges Public Service Media’s role in promoting a safe and trusted online space for children”.

EBU Head of Public Affairs Nicola Frank pointed out that the EP Resolution gave extra weight to the EBU’s  argumentation on the issue.

She said: “Public service media must be present on all platforms, because that is what their audiences expect; part of that is ensuring that they provide a safe, trustworthy cyber environment, especially for children. We welcome this resolution, which is an official endorsement of this important role.”

Wednesday’s Resolution also called on EU states to implement social, educational and youth policies that strengthen digital literacy and skills, another subject high on the EBU’s advocacy agenda.

During a debate preceding Wednesday’s Resolution, rapporteur Silvia Costa said: “We sought to weigh up the fundamental rights of minors in the digital world – the rights to access, instruction and protection – and to protect their right, as digital citizens, under a new form of governance, to develop their interests as persons and European citizens.”

Adopted text available here

Related article here