Childnet International today submitted and published its submission to the European Commission’s Public Consultation on Safer Internet and online technologies for children.
Childnet has very much welcomed the EU Safer Internet programmes and was heavily involved in the preparatory actions for the programmes in 1998 and 1999. At that time Childnet undertook detailed research in 6 European Countries assessing the then initial Internet safety messages and making recommendations for awareness work. Childnet was also heavily involved in establishing the INHOPE network of hotlines.
Childnet believes that the leadership that the EU has taken in prioritising the safe and responsible use of technology for vulnerable citizens (including children) has made an enormous contribution to ensuring that all sectors play their role in ensuring that children are safe online.
Will Gardner, Deputy CEO and Head of Policy says:
“Childnet has valuable experience to share with the Commission about the issues of illegal, harmful and user generated content and in our submission we have sought to highlight the positive work which has been undertaken, but also identify key areas where new work is needed. At a time when information communications technology is expanding across Europe and there are significant online child protection issues, Childnet believes that the Safer Internet Programme should be extended and expanded beyond 2008”
Stephen Carrick-Davies Childnet’s CEO will be speaking at the Safer Internet Forum in Luxembourg on the 20-21 June on the subject of ‘The role of awareness-raising in creating a safer online environment in the future’.
To discuss Childnet’s submission contact Will Gardner