The Digital Services Act (DSA), which fully came into force in February 2024, obliges online platforms, such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, to make their services safer for minors. Considering the abstract nature of the law, the European Commission is ready to draw up guidelines to show platform operators concrete measures that they may consider. The European Broadcasting Union has contributed to the European Commission’s call for evidence.

Thomas Bergmann, Senior EU Policy Adviser, EBU, said: “Public service media invest heavily in the creation of specific programmes, channels, and apps, corresponding to the needs of young audiences. At the same time, they see online platforms removing or blocking access to these content and services, thereby disrespecting the standards set at national level for the protection of minors. The EU Commission must address this paradox: Just because online platforms operate at a global level, should not mean that they can override national youth protection standards and their oversight!”.

In its contribution, the EBU underlines, amongst many other things, the need for online platforms to be respectful of national content standards and the integrity of media content by online platforms. In order to foster an online space that is truly conducive to the development and well-being of young audiences, platforms should consider facilitating access to and findability of content which is specifically targeted at minors, especially the programmes and services offered by public service media.

Read our detailed feedback to the EU Commission’s call for evidence on the right.