The internet should be a tool for gathering knowledge and information as well as for entertainment for users of all age groups. But nowadays more and more people are afraid of encountering unwanted and harmful content, instead of useful information, while being online.

A combination of technical tools with increased effectiveness and approved pedagogical measures seems to be the solution. To develop the ideal mix of both there is a need for collaboration between specialists and experts from the technical and pedagogical fields.

The Youth Protection Roundtable therefore joins the relevant players together to develop a code of conduct for software developers and produce neutral guidelines for the use of filter technologies and pedagogical measures in the private and public area.

To find a common language between technicians, pedagogues and parents, it will be necessary to facilitate and coordinate the exchange of views between both. The overall goal of this process is to find the ideal way to enable youth and adults caring for minors to make safe and secure use of the internet. Taking into account the various cultural backgrounds of European countries, the YPRT will finally provide European parents and educators with the information necessary to decide on adequate content in accordance with their cultural values.

While many fruitful and distinct ideas are sure to blossom at the Youth Protection Roundtable, one overarching goal will be a common strategy, embedded in the cultural context, for preventing children and youth from encountering unwanted and harmful internet content.

The first meeting of the Youth Protection Roundtable will take place parallel to the European Media Seminar which will be held in the German city of Leipzig between 9 -11 May 2007.

Jutta Croll, Managing Director Stiftung Digitale Chancen