Young generation to be protected by software filters against harmful Internet content

The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe has adopted a new Recommendation on the use of Internet filters – software meant to protect in particular children and young people against harmful Internet content, Info-Prim Neo reports. To strike a balance between freedom of expression and information and protection of children against harmful content on the Internet, member states are invited to take measures to ensure that the use of filters by public and private actors is legitimate, proportional and transparent to users. The appended guidelines contain specific guidance to member states emphasizing the importance of empowering users to understand and effectively use filters. The Committee of Ministers also took note of a related background report on the matter. The Committee of Ministers also adopted a declaration on the independence and functions of regulatory authorities for the broadcasting sectors of the member states. This declaration is intended to assist member states in the concrete implementation of Recommendation (2000)23, by underlining the importance for regulatory authorities to be effective, transparent and accountable.