Co-funded by the European UnionThe "Safer Internet Programme" of the EU
In order to promote safe use of modern communication media and to protect consumers from undesirable content, the EU initiated the “Safer Internet Programme” in 1999. This is an action plan focusing on preventive measures against illegal, undesirable, or detrimental content, and on emphasizing the importance of a safe media environment and of public awareness. This includes providing relevant information to the general public and cultivating cooperation in a wide range of partnerships among societal groups and institutions. With the adoption of Safer Internet Programme 2009-2013 by the European Parliament and the Council, the programme started into its third round and was extended for another four years.
By now, there is a Safer Internet Centre in 26 European countries which implements the Safer Internet Programme. According to the European Commission's targets, these Safer Internet Centres include the different action lines of the Safer Internet Programme:
- Awareness Centre , promoting media literacy and awareness on the internet
- Hotline for reporting illegal content
- Helpline as counselling centre for children, young people, parents and teachers
In Germany, Saferinternet DE contributes to the Safer Internet Programme. Saferinternet DE consists of this hotline maintained by eco and FSM, the awareness node klicksafe, the hotline of jugendschutz.net and the helpline Nummer gegen Kummer.
