Better Internet for Kids

The objectives of the Act is to promote young people’s social inclusion and opportunities for exerting an influence; improve their skills and capabilities to function in society; support their growth, independence and sense of community and facilitate the acquisition of knowledge, adoption of skills and pursuit of free-time hobbies and activities in civic society; as well as to promote non-discrimination and realisation of civic rights while improving young people’s growth and living conditions.

In the Netherlands, a Youth Council on digitalisation was established in September 2023, together with UNICEF. Children aged 11 to 17 advise the Minister for Digitalisation on relevant topics they encounter in their daily lives. The outcomes are fed into national policy on protecting children in the digital world. This initiative focuses on youth participation by safeguarding children's rights in the digital environment. Children aged 10 to 16 are trained to discuss digital matters that influence their lives, such as cyberbullying, online safety, and positive online content.

The Youth Digital Safety Volunteer Programme is a peer-led youth volunteering initiative coordinated by the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth to educate children, adolescents, and families on safe, responsible digital citizenship and online behaviour.

(Source: IPDJ)

Entities responsible for implementation: Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ)

These guidelines address youth participation in information services, presenting tools to include young people as information creators, peer educators, and representatives in governmental bodies. In addition, the guide provides information on how to conduct feedback with young people when evaluating, monitoring and assessing initiatives.
(Source: Guide).

Entities responsible for implementation:
Eurodesk and European Youth Information and Counselling Agency (ERYICA)

The Youth Protection Act (Jugendschutzgesetz) sets a policy to protect children in different contexts, including public spaces and online. There are limitations related to children's access to film events, electronic game machines, and other associated industries. It was last amended by Article 12 (2024) on image carriers - films and games. 
(Source: Website).

Entities responsible for implementation: Federal Ministry of Justice / Bundesministerium der Justiz.

The Youth Sector Development Plan 2021–2035 supports versatile learning paths and approaches that empower young people. The Youth Development Plan emphasises the need to value youth culture and ensure that young people have the opportunity to participate in cultural creation. (Source: Estonia - Policy monitor country profile, 2025)