Protecting minors from harmful ‘pop-up’ content

23.6.2017

Question for written answer E-004200-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Cristian-Silviu Buşoi (PPE)

Minors within the European Union are exposed to a constantly increasing volume of audiovisual content on digital platforms, both legal (e.g. YouTube) and illegal (pirate video streaming websites). Audiovisual stimuli provide examples, which can easily make an impression upon minors, who may attempt to mimic them. The existence of audiovisual content of the ‘pop-up’ variety containing pornography or otherwise harmful images is a particularly serious problem, as neither minors nor their parents have any de facto control over receiving it.

While a balance must be struck between freedom of expression and the interests of individuals, minors enjoy more rigorous standards of protection. According to Article 52 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, there is a disproportionate relationship between harmful pop-up content and the minors’ lack of choice as to whether to view the said content. Moreover, despite regulations regarding the online environment, pirate websites continue to resurface. The challenge presented by harmful ‘pop-ups’ is thus greater when the websites they are attached to are themselves illegal.

In light of the need to protect the interests of minors, how does the Commission plan to address harmful audiovisual ‘pop-up’ content not covered by the current regulation?