The European Union has called on online platforms to do more to combat cyberbullying, highlighting the growing threat to children’s mental health. The EU’s announcement on Tuesday comes as concerns rise over the harmful effects of social media on minors, which experts say affect one in six children.

The Digital Services Act, which currently sets guidelines for protecting minors online, will be updated to strengthen safety measures. New rules are expected to ensure that children can block or mute users, and prevent them from being added to online groups without consent. Platforms will also have to make it easier for minors to report harmful content.

In addition, the Audiovisual Media Services Directive, which governs broadcasters and video-sharing platforms, will be revised to tackle cyberbullying more effectively.

EU Commissioner for Youth, Culture and Sport, Glenn Micallef, stressed the urgency of action: “Combating cyberbullying means saving lives, because cyberbullying harms, hurts, and sometimes takes the people we love. It is a pandemic we must address.”

As part of its initiative, the Commission plans to launch an EU-wide app allowing victims to report cyberbullying directly to national helplines. The app will also let users store evidence, seek support, and interact with authorities more efficiently.