Better Internet for Kids

The program of the summit features new knowledge on children’s lives online and information on the support that the organisations behind the Safer Internet Centre Sweden offer. The program includes The Swedish Agency for the Media’s presentation of three new reports where children and young people’s media use and health, relation to influencers and girls with neuropsyciatric disabilities and online behaviour are examined. There is also a presentation of the Digital Services Act, DSA, from a senior expert of the European Commission. 

In this report the connection between self-assessed mental health and media use among girls (aged 13-18 years) with neuropsychiatric disabilities is described and analysed. The report is based on data from the series Kids and Media that is Sweden’s largest survey on children and media use carried out every second year. Some of the results are that girls with neuropsychiatric disabilities aged 13–18 use social media and digital devices for a longer time per day on average compared to other young people of the same age.

The study ‘Sexual Harassment Online’ clearly shows that sexual harassment on the internet is a sad part of everyday life for many children and young people in Austria. The infographic shows the key findings of the study, which was conducted in October 2024. 405 young people between the ages of 11 and 17 took part in the online survey. In addition, 70 young people from four school classes aged between 13 and 19 were interviewed in focus groups. Interviews with experts from counselling centres and academia rounded off the study.

The sexting poster informs young people about what to consider when sending intimate pictures and videos. It clarifies legal aspects, provides contact points for those affected and promotes a responsible approach to the issue through prevention and education.

The primary objective of the Garda lesson for first and second year students is to raise awareness about Coco’s Law, which criminalises certain online behaviours like the non-consensual distribution of intimate images and cyberbullying.

By explaining the key elements of the law, students gain awareness of the legal consequences associated with harmful digital behaviour, ensuring they understand the seriousness of such actions. 

This resource was created as part of the Garda Schools Programme.

The quiz “Sexting and online harassment” is aimed at young people and teaches them how to handle intimate content and harassment responsibly. Players learn about the legal framework of sexting, are educated about risks, and receive tips on what to do if a picture falls into the wrong hands. The quiz also uses case studies to show what sexual harassment is and how to protect yourself from it. Among other things, it addresses what you can do if someone asks you uncomfortable questions or requests intimate photos.

This FAQ collection is aimed at professionals who work with children and young people, such as educators, social workers and similar professionals. It covers legal issues related to child protection in the digital space (e.g. sexting or how to deal with unsolicited intimate pictures) and offers guidance on navigating the often confusing legal situation. Professionals also receive tools to effectively support children and young people with problems related to sexual violence on the internet.