Better Internet for Kids

Safer Internet Day 2025 reaffirmed its role as a key moment in February for Save the Children Romania and the Safer Internet programme team, bringing together experts, policymakers, and educators to discuss pressing issues in children’s online safety. The event served as a platform to highlight the latest research findings, disseminate essential educational resources, and reinforce the collective commitment to fostering a safer digital environment for young users.

During this year’s gathering, the results of an extensive sociological study were presented, offering a detailed analysis of the emotional impact of cyberbullying on children. The findings shed light on the increasing vulnerability of children in digital spaces and the challenges they face when dealing with online harassment. The research sparked an engaging discussion among specialists, educators, and policymakers, emphasising the need for effective intervention strategies and stronger preventive measures to tackle cyberbullying. The data also provided insights into children’s internet habits, underlining the importance of equipping them with the necessary skills to critically navigate the digital landscape.

As part of the event, Save the Children Romania introduced and distributed an updated version of the brochure on cyberbullying addressed to parents and teachers. The material was specifically designed to support parents in guiding their children towards safer internet usage by helping them recognise risks, set privacy controls, and engage in open conversations about their online experiences. The resource aims to bridge the knowledge gap between parents and children, ensuring that families are well-informed about both the opportunities and threats of digital engagement.

Beyond awareness, the programme focused on extending its reach to schools nationwide. A comprehensive educational package was developed and shared with teachers across Romania, empowering them to integrate online safety discussions and cyberbullying into their classrooms. The initiative encouraged educators to facilitate activities based on fictional case studies, allowing students to analyse real-life digital dilemmas and develop responsible online behaviours. Additionally, parents were provided with tailored guidance on initiating meaningful conversations about internet safety at home, reinforcing the importance of a balanced and secure digital experience for children.

The event was further enriched by the participation of key authorities and institutional partners, including the Ministry of Education, the National Authority for Management and Regulation in Communications, the Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism, the Directorate for Combating Organised Crime, and the General Inspectorate of the Romanian Police. These representatives shared updated statistics on online threats and detailed their future plans to enhance child protection in digital spaces. The event generated widespread media attention, with over 96 mentions across television, radio, print, and digital platforms, reflecting the growing public concern for online safety.

With more than 4,900 children already engaged in school-based activities through this initiative, Safer Internet Day 2025 reinforced the ongoing efforts to create a digital space where children feel safe, supported, and empowered. Moving forward, Save the Children Romania remains committed to expanding digital literacy programmes, strengthening collaborations with educators and policymakers, and ensuring that children’s perspectives are actively considered in shaping the future of online safety. The event not only highlighted the progress made but also underscored the need for continuous action in safeguarding young users in an ever-evolving digital landscape. 

Learn more about Safer Internet Day activities in Romania on their SID page on our platform!

Further information about the Romanian Safer Internet Centre can be found on the Better Internet for Kids (BIK) public portal, including links to its national websites and other contact information. Similar information can be found on the BIK portal for all Safer Internet Centres in Europe.