Brussels – As Europe marks Safer Internet Day 2026, the European Commission has unveiled a series of renewed initiatives aimed at boosting online safety across the continent, with particular focus on protecting children and fostering digital literacy. The measures were highlighted in a February 6 article titled “Safer Internet Day 2026 brings renewed EU actions and initiatives,” published on the Digital Strategy website of the European Commission.
The annual event, which began in 2004 and now reaches more than 180 countries, serves as a rallying point for stakeholders across governments, industry, civil society, and education sectors to promote more secure and responsible use of digital technology, especially among younger generations. This year’s observance arrives amid increased scrutiny of online platforms and growing concerns about the safety and wellbeing of children in the digital environment.
Among the key actions announced, the EU is intensifying its support for the Better Internet for Kids (BIK+) strategy, which was initially launched in 2022. The strategy seeks to empower children with digital skills, ensure age-appropriate digital services, and bolster the implementation of robust safety mechanisms within online platforms. The European Commission reaffirmed its commitment to this framework, emphasizing collaboration with member states and tech companies to translate policy into practice.
The Commission is also expanding the reach and impact of the Safer Internet Centres operating in each EU country. These centres, which offer helplines, awareness-raising activities, and tools for reporting harmful content, are viewed as a cornerstone of the EU’s child protection ecosystem in the digital sphere. According to the latest data, over 3.2 million people engaged with Safer Internet Centre activities in 2023, demonstrating growing demand for trusted digital safety resources across member states.
In line with broader legislative efforts, the Commission underscored the relevance of the Digital Services Act (DSA), which came into force in early 2024. The DSA imposes heightened responsibilities on large online platforms to tackle illegal content, adopt transparent content moderation practices, and protect minors. Several of its provisions, including obligations around risk assessments and algorithmic transparency, are designed to mitigate harms such as cyberbullying, online grooming, and exposure to inappropriate material.
Furthermore, the EU continues to foster cross-sector partnerships to address emerging risks linked to generative artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and the proliferation of disinformation. Officials reiterated that the digital space must remain a safe, respectful, and empowering environment for all users—especially children, who are both enthusiastic adopters of technology and uniquely vulnerable to its threats.
“We want children to go online in a safe and empowering way,” said European Commission Vice-President for Values and Transparency Věra Jourová. “That means increasing their digital skills, trust in the technologies they use, and the safeguards around them.”
The European Commission’s efforts align with broader global movements recognizing the need for thoughtful governance of the digital landscape. On Safer Internet Day 2026, institutions across Europe are hosting workshops, educational campaigns, and consultations designed to enhance awareness and engagement on digital safety issues.
As digital transformation accelerates, policymakers face the dual challenge of fostering innovation while ensuring that rules and standards adapt to protect the most vulnerable. With the initiatives unveiled this week, the European Union signals both its vigilance and resolve in shaping a safer digital future.
