Coverage of children's exposure to harmful content on social media, parental guidance, and regulatory efforts (national and EU) to protect minors online.
A Dutch government survey finds half of children aged 10–15 see upsetting content online, but many hide it from parents. A new campaign urges parents to talk early and without judgment, while the government pushes for a European minimum age for social media use.
The EU proposes a minimum age of 13 for social media, with parental consent required until 15. The Dutch government, which has been pushing for EU-wide rules, simultaneously reports half of children aged 10–15 see harmful content online. Meanwhile, Meta's $18bn settlement with US states leaves parents questioning accountability, and a livestreamed stabbing in Amsterdam highlights gaps in real-time moderation.
Half of Dutch children aged 10-15 see upsetting content online, but hide it from parents. Minister Aerdts launches a new campaign urging open conversations and joint phone rules. Snapchat and TikTok are the main sources; the government pushes for EU-wide minimum age for social media.