The Commission Recommendation on integrated child protection systems[1] reaffirms the EU’s commitment to combating all form of violence against children and is driving a coordinated approach to strengthen child protection mechanisms through legislative enhancements, regulatory enforcement and strategic initiatives.

The Commission is working closely with Member States, stakeholders and civil society to move forward in the implementation of the recommendation, drawing on best practices and building on EU-level legislation, policy measures, and funding.

Through its Technical Support Instrument, Member States can strengthen their child protection systems to address persistent challenges such as mental health wellbeing and digital safety.

The EU’s framework includes several legislative instruments to address digital threats. The Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD)[2], the Digital Services Act (DSA)[3] and the Better Internet for Kids+ strategy[4] are at the core of the EU toolbox to protect and empower children online.

Under the DSA, the Commission has opened investigations regarding TikTok and Meta and more recently, commenced proceedings against four porn platforms.

The Commission is preparing a package to enhance the toolbox which includes, DSA protection of minors’ guidelines[5], an Age Verification Solution[6], an Action Plan against Cyberbullying, an inquiry on social media and mental health, and an evaluation of the AVMSD.

The Commission is advancing the EU Strategy to combat child sexual abuse[7] including the recast of Directive 2011/93/EU[8] and a new Regulation to prevent and combat child sexual abuse[9]. As announced in the Protect EU Strategy[10], the Commission will present an Action Plan on the Protection of Children Against Crime.

Last updated: 7 July 2025