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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2026/2693(RSP))

On the need for targeted criminal provisions and platforms’ responsibility to effectively address cyberbullying and online harassment

B-10-2026-0212

on behalf of the ECR Group · Rapporteur: Assita Kanko, Stefano Cavedagna

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This resolution addresses cyberbullying and online harassment, stressing that existing EU law should be fully enforced before new legislation is considered, and calls on platforms and member states to take targeted action to protect minors online.

Key points

  1. Stresses the need for a balanced strategy combining safety-by-design, algorithmic transparency, digital literacy, participatory governance and evidence-based evaluation to protect minors online.
  2. Underlines the importance of digital literacy programmes for families and teachers, especially regarding tools to limit exposure to harmful content, including for minors with disabilities.
  3. Recalls that cyberbullying must be addressed seriously and in a targeted manner, respecting fundamental rights, freedom of expression, legal certainty and proportionality.
  4. Notes that many cyberbullying behaviours are already punishable under national laws, even if not defined as a specific offence of 'cyberbullying'.
  5. Emphasises that priority should be given to full implementation and robust enforcement of the Digital Services Act and other existing instruments before adding to current legislation.
  6. Encourages member states and the Commission to strengthen awareness-raising campaigns, including initiatives similar to Safer Internet Day, to prevent harmful online behaviours.
  7. Stresses the importance of digital and media literacy as a key defence against manipulation and harmful online conduct, and calls for stronger educational support.
  8. Urges online platforms to take greater responsibility for protecting minors by ensuring clear reporting mechanisms, moderation tools, default safety settings and proportionate algorithmic adjustments, in compliance with EU law.
  9. Emphasises that additional obligations on platforms should remain proportionate, technologically feasible and compatible with freedom of expression.
  10. Calls on online video game developers and operators to implement safeguards against cyberbullying, including reporting tools, moderation, privacy settings and age-appropriate design.
  11. Calls on member states to develop targeted strategies to protect children from online bullying, involving schools, families, child protection services and law enforcement.
  12. Underlines that cyberbullying does not meet the criteria of a particularly serious crime with cross-border dimension under Article 83(1) TFEU, and that action at member state level remains better suited.

Who is affected

  • Online platforms: urged to take greater responsibility for protecting minors, with clear reporting and moderation tools.
  • Online video game developers, publishers and operators: called on to implement safeguards against cyberbullying in gaming environments.
  • Member states: encouraged to strengthen awareness campaigns and develop targeted strategies for child protection online.
  • Minors with disabilities: highlighted as facing heightened exposure to cyberbullying, requiring accessible protection mechanisms.

Legal basis: Article 165 TFEU