A European strategy for a better internet for kids (BIK+)

The new strategy for a better internet for kids (BIK+), adopted on 11 May 2022, will ensure that children are protected, respected and empowered online in the new Digital Decade, in line with the European Digital Principles. A child-friendly version of the BIK+ Strategy is also available. This new strategy builds on the first European Strategy for a Better Internet for Children (BIK).  As much has changed technologically and in EU legislation since 2012, a compendium of relevant legislation is available.

BIK+ reflects the contributions of a wide range of views, primarily those of children. Children will be involved in its implementation and monitoring.

Our vision is for age-appropriate digital services, with every child in Europe protected, empowered and respected online, and no one left behind.

BIK+, a flagship initiative of the European Year of Youth 2022, proposes actions around three pillars:

1. safe digital experiences to protect children from harmful and illegal online content, conduct, contact and risks as young consumers and to improve their well-being online through a safe, age-appropriate digital environment, created in a way that respects children’s best interests;
2. digital empowerment so all children, also those in situations of vulnerability, acquire the necessary skills and competences to make sound choices and express themselves in the online environment safely and responsibly;
3. active participation, respecting children by giving them a say in the digital environment, with more child-led activities to foster innovative and creative safe digital experiences.

Under BIK+, the Better Internet for Kids portal will continue to provide a wealth of resources and best practice, in cooperation with the EU co-funded network of Safer Internet Centres in Member States, who reach out to children, parents and teachers.

Among the ongoing initiatives to deliver concrete solutions for a better and healthy use of internet for children and young people, we are working towards a standard age assurance and verification methods in Europe, support for rapid assessment of illegal and harmful content, and ensuring the ‘116 111’ number offers help to victims of cyberbullying, are just a few of the fresh . Cooperation and support from industry and Member States are key to making these plans a reality.

Youth participation remains a priority. BIK+ supports children’s active participation and respects their views by for instance organising a child-led evaluation of the BIK+ strategy every two years, increasing peer-to-peer activities at national, regional and local level and expecting industry to consult their young users.

The new strategy will continue to inform policy development across EU Member States.  The Commission will continue to share experiences, expertise and values with international organisations and partners, and to support a common approach towards digital rights for children worldwide

BIK+ has been the digital arm of the comprehensive EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child (RoC) since 2021.