EU champions a safer internet for minors

11.16.35am GMT Wed 13th Dec 2006

The European Parliament yesterday adopted a report improving the legislation linked to the Internet, providing for better protection of minors.

This recommendation stipulates that Member States must organise information campaigns to make their citizens aware of possible risks linked to the Internet as well as distributing information kits explaining "safe surfing" and protective filter systems and inform people of how to register complaints via special telephone lines to be installed in every Member State.

Furthermore, Member States should foresee continuous training for teachers on the use of the Internet and the dangers linked to discussion and "chat" forums.

Lib Dem MEP Liz Lynne said:

"The internet has become an incredibly popular means of communication, particularly for young people and is available at schools, in cybercafés and on 3rd generation telephone mobiles.

"The European Union urgently had to propose a whole series of measures to ensure the minimum protection of the most vulnerable users, such as minors, who are confronted to ever more harmful, violent or pornographic pictures."