Proactive and optimal protection of Children's digital privacy as the cornerstone for European democracies

Internet users are subjected to a number of threats concerning their personal data and other information that is being collected when they spend time on social media platforms. The importance of privacy as a human right has been re-assessed in practice and policy over the past decade repeatedly, due to the pressures its exercising undergoes under the global system of media platforms and the intrusive strategies of states. Not only is privacy as a right increasingly determined by global media platforms, but also even state authorities when not violating this right, operationalise its protection by limiting its scope. As is the case with the GDPR European Union legislation for the protection of personal data, privacy is concreted as a question of personal data. Children have a special mention in EU law as they can be considered particularly vulnerable and in need of additional measures of protection. This policy brief emphasises the significance of ensuring children's rights to digital privacy and identity protection in the European Union, providing practical recommendations to create a secure online environment for young individuals.