Belgium
Better Internet for Kids (BIK) is an initiative funded by the European Commission with the aim of creating a safer and better internet for children and youth across Europe. The core service platform and activities are managed by European Schoolnet, coordinating the Insafe network of awareness centres, helplines, and youth panels. In partnership with INHOPE (International Association of Internet Hotlines), BIK operates through Safer Internet Centres (SICs) in EU Member States, Iceland, Norway, and the UK to ensure online safety for young people.
Within this network, national awareness centres play a vital role in raising awareness about online safety issues and implementing campaigns to empower children, youth, parents, carers, and teachers with the necessary skills and strategies to stay protected online. Meanwhile, helplines offer information and support to address harmful content, contact, and conduct, and can be accessed through various channels such as telephone, email, web forms, Skype, or online chat services.
Moreover, the hotlines enable anonymous reporting of illegal online content, with the reports being forwarded to the relevant authorities for action. Additionally, youth panels provide a platform for young people to share their online experiences, contribute to the creation of innovative resources, and spread eSafety messages among their peers.
The BIK initiative also collaborates with various stakeholders including parents, carers, educators, researchers, industry representatives, decision-makers, and law enforcement agencies, recognizing the collective responsibility in fostering a safer online environment for children. To follow their work, visit www.betterinternetforkids.eu.
Industries: IT, Internet, Platforms
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