Children’s rights and well-being have long been a priority for the European Union (EU) and the European Parliament. Through legislation, collaborations, and strategic initiatives, they are dedicated to protecting children from harm, promoting their well-being, and ensuring their fundamental rights.
Children’s Rights as an EU Priority:
The EU and the European Parliament have firmly established the protection and promotion of children’s rights as key objectives. These rights are enshrined in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. To further reinforce the importance of children’s rights, the Parliament works closely with the European Commission, EU agencies, the Council of Europe, and national bodies to ensure that their rights are safeguarded through legislation.
Coordinated Action for Children’s Rights:
Recognizing the need for central coordination, the Parliament has appointed a specific co-ordinator on children’s rights. This individual serves as a critical point of contact to monitor and integrate children’s rights into EU policies and legislation. By implementing this role, the Parliament aims to ensure that the interests, well-being, and rights of children are prioritized and consistently upheld.
The EU Strategy on Child Rights:
To combat poverty, social exclusion, discrimination, and intimidation faced by children, the EU adopted the 2021-2024 EU strategy on child rights in March 2021. This comprehensive strategy aims to create a supportive environment for children by addressing these pressing issues through targeted measures. By setting clear goals and action plans, the EU aspires to provide enhanced protection and opportunities for all children living within its member states.
European Child Guarantee:
As part of its commitment to child well-being, the EU has agreed upon a European Child Guarantee. This initiative is designed to ensure that all children in the EU, including those at risk of poverty, have access to crucial services such as healthcare and education. Each EU country has appointed a child guarantee coordinator responsible for developing and presenting their national action plans until 2030. This collective effort aims to bridge gaps, eliminate disparities, and provide equal opportunities for every child across the European Union.
Addressing Child Labour:
The EU acknowledges the urgency of eradicating child labour globally and is actively working towards this goal. In October 2023, MEPs adopted their position to ban products made using forced labour, including child labour, from the EU market. This draft regulation establishes a robust framework for investigating companies that exploit forced labour, with appropriate consequences for those found guilty. By preventing such products from entering the EU market, the EU aims to contribute to ending child labour and protecting the rights of vulnerable children.
Creating a Safer Internet:
With the increasing use of the internet and mobile phones among children, the EU recognizes the need for enhanced online safety measures. While technology brings educational and social opportunities, it also exposes children to risks such as cyberbullying, age-inappropriate content, and disinformation. In May 2022, the Commission proposed an updated strategy for a safer and better internet for children and young people. This strategy focuses on education, awareness, and establishing robust frameworks to protect children from online threats.
Combatting Child Sexual Abuse Online:
Parliament is taking proactive steps towards preventing and stopping child sexual abuse online while protecting individual privacy. Through new rules, hosting and messaging service providers will be required to assess the risks associated with their platforms and take effective measures to mitigate these risks, without resorting to mass surveillance. These measures aim to strike a balance between combatting child sexual abuse and safeguarding the privacy and rights of individuals.
Combatting Human Trafficking:
Children are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking, often due to factors such as poverty, violence, and discrimination. To strengthen existing rules and bolster efforts to combat human trafficking, the EU proposed legislative measures in October 2023. Parliament adopted its position, emphasizing further steps to protect victims and providing a foundation for negotiations with EU countries. Such action aims to prevent the exploitation and trafficking of children and ensure their safety.
Child protection and well-being are integral to the EU’s commitment to building a just and inclusive society. Through legislation, strategic initiatives, and collaborative efforts, the EU and the European Parliament are actively working towards safeguarding children’s rights and creating an environment conducive to their healthy development. By addressing issues such as child labour, online safety, human trafficking, and promoting healthy lifestyles, the EU aims to provide every child with equal opportunities and a nurturing environment to thrive.
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