© Jakovo - E+ via Getty Images
As a key action under the BIK+ strategy, the Commission will facilitate a comprehensive EU Code of conduct on age-appropriate design.
The Code will build on the regulatory framework provided in the Digital Services Act (DSA) and assist with its implementation and will be in line with the EU's Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
In particular, the group will assist DG Connect in:
- collecting relevant resources (reports, opinions, analysis and other documents and material) regarding existing codes, guidelines, recommendations and policies on age-appropriate design;
- drafting the Code;
- establishing a monitoring system for the Code, including KPIs and baseline.
The Code aims to reinforce the involvement of industry in protecting children when using digital products, with the ultimate goal of ensuring their privacy, safety and security online.
Industry, civil society, and academia are invited to take part in the process through an ad hoc special group. The group is expected to operate until the Code is adopted by relevant signatories.
The group will be composed of up to thirty (30) members. For more details on members’ eligibility, mission and tasks, please read the Terms of reference (see "Related Links").
International organisations and Member State entities may be granted an observer status, by direct invitation. In addition, in line with the BIK+ aim to encourage youth participation, children and young people may take part in meetings of the group by direct invitation.
The first meeting of the group will take place in the first quarter of 2023; the aim is to make the code public by mid-2024.
To apply, download the Terms of reference and to read the frequently asked questions, please check the "Related links" section.
New deadline: 18 January 2023
Related Content
Big Picture
The strategy for a better Internet for children provides actions to empower young people as they explore the digital world.
See Also
The Safer Internet Forum is the key annual international conference on child online safety in Europe.
Safer Internet Day promotes a safer and more responsible use of online technology by children and young people around the world.
Digital participation, empowerment and protection finely balanced in the new European strategy for a better internet for kids (BIK+).
Self-regulation is one of the instruments of the European strategy to create a better Internet for children.
The expert group on safer Internet for children helps improve coordination and cooperation among EU Member States to keep children safe when using the internet.
Safer Internet Centres inform, advise and assist children, parents, teachers and carers on digital questions and fights against online child sexual abuse.