EU Pushes Platforms to Step Up Anti‑Cyberbullying Efforts

• The European Commission has announced new measures aimed at strengthening protections for minors online, warning that major platforms may need to do more to combat cyberbullying.
• Updated rules under the Digital Services Act and other EU legislation will require clearer reporting tools and stronger safeguards for children.
• The initiative reflects growing concern about the mental‑health impact of online harassment on young users.

EU Calls for Stronger Action Against Cyberbullying

The European Commission has unveiled a set of measures designed to address cyberbullying, a problem that affects roughly one in six children across the EU. Officials said online platforms may be required to adopt additional safeguards to protect minors from harmful interactions. The announcement comes amid rising global concern about the impact of social media on young people’s mental health. Several countries are already considering restrictions on children’s access to online platforms.

The initiative builds on the Digital Services Act (DSA), which obliges platforms to counter illegal and harmful content. Existing DSA guidelines require that minors be able to block or mute users and avoid being added to groups without their consent. The Commission now plans to strengthen these rules to ensure harmful content is easier to report and less likely to reach young users. Updated requirements will clarify what platforms must do to prevent exposure to online harassment.

Another legislative framework, the Audiovisual Media Services Directive, will also be revised to address cyberbullying. This directive governs broadcasters, television services and video‑sharing platforms. Its update is intended to align media regulations with the realities of modern online communication. The Commission emphasized that coordinated action across multiple regulatory areas is necessary to protect children effectively.

Glenn Micallef, EU Commissioner for youth, culture and sport, described cyberbullying as a threat that can cause lasting harm. He said combating it “means saving lives,” stressing the urgency of the issue. His comments reflect the growing recognition that online harassment can have severe psychological consequences. The Commission’s initiative aims to give young people safer digital environments.

Digital Tools to Support Victims and Investigators

As part of its action plan, the Commission announced the development of an EU‑wide app to support victims of cyberbullying. The app will allow users to report incidents directly to national helplines. It will also provide a secure way to store and send evidence of harassment. Additional support resources will be integrated to help victims access guidance quickly.

The Commission argues that digital tools can make reporting more accessible for young people. Many victims hesitate to speak up due to fear, embarrassment or uncertainty about where to seek help. A unified reporting platform aims to reduce these barriers. Authorities hope that easier reporting will lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes.

The initiative also encourages platforms to improve their internal systems for detecting harmful behavior. Automated tools may be required to identify patterns of harassment or repeated violations. These systems would complement human moderation teams rather than replace them. The goal is to ensure that harmful content is addressed promptly and consistently.

The Commission noted that cyberbullying often crosses national borders, making coordinated responses essential. An EU‑wide approach can help ensure that victims receive support regardless of where they live. It also allows regulators to gather more comprehensive data on the scale of the problem. This information will inform future policy decisions.

Updating Europe’s Digital Rulebook

The Digital Services Act already places significant responsibilities on large online platforms. Its upcoming updates will further clarify how companies must protect minors. Requirements may include more robust content‑filtering tools, clearer reporting mechanisms and stricter controls on group participation. These measures aim to reduce the likelihood that children encounter harmful interactions online.

The Audiovisual Media Services Directive will undergo similar revisions. Video‑sharing platforms will be expected to strengthen their moderation practices. Broadcasters and streaming services may also face new obligations related to youth protection. The Commission intends to ensure that all major digital media channels contribute to a safer online environment.

Officials emphasized that the initiative is not solely about regulation. It also aims to raise awareness among parents, educators and young people. Public campaigns will accompany the legislative updates to encourage responsible online behavior. The Commission believes that education and digital literacy are essential components of long‑term prevention.

The EU’s broader strategy reflects a shift toward more proactive digital governance. Regulators are increasingly focused on the social impact of online platforms. Cyberbullying is one of several issues—alongside misinformation, privacy and safety—that the EU is addressing through updated legislation. The new measures signal that protecting minors will remain a priority in Europe’s digital policy agenda.

Cyberbullying rates have risen across many countries as children spend more time online. Studies show that harassment often occurs on messaging apps, gaming platforms and social networks. The EU’s initiative aligns with similar efforts in the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom, where lawmakers are exploring ways to limit harmful content and improve youth safety.