Brussels, 06/02/2012 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission will celebrate “Safer Internet Day” 2012 on 7 February. More than 100 events in 30 European countries have been lined up to encourage children, their families and teachers, to discover the digital world together. This year's Safer Internet Day campaign “Discover the digital world together…safely” focuses on connecting generations to help keep younger generations safe online. Tech-savvy youngsters can teach older generations how to use new technologies, while parents and grandparents draw on their life experiences to help the youngsters avoid those who would do them harm. Marking the event, Digital Strategy Commissioner Neelie Kroes will visit European Schoolnet's Future Classroom Lab in Brussels. “The internet is one of the best places for kids to be. I want everyone … to work together so all kids' online experiences are positive ones”, she said.
In Europe, Safer Internet Day is coordinated by INSAFE, the network of Safer Internet Centres funded by the Commission through the €55 million Safer Internet Programme. The Commission underlines that keeping children safe online is an important part of the Digital Agenda for Europe. In December 2011, the Commission convened a coalition of 28 leading companies who have committed to making a better and safer internet for children (see EUROPE 10507). Three more companies (Stardoll, Skyrock and Telecom Italia) joined the coalition in January 2012. In addition to coordinating industry efforts, the Commission will present a comprehensive strategy for a safer Internet for kids in spring 2012. (IL/transl.rt)