Catalonia approves 67 measures for the digital wellbeing of minors

The Generalitat has agreed on 67 measures to create a Catalan model for children's digital wellbeing, coordinated by a commission of 12 departments. The plan includes six axes, with regulation as a priority and a future digital wellbeing law.

The Government of Catalonia has taken a decisive step to regulate the digital environment for minors. In the second meeting of the Interdepartmental Commission, formed by 12 departments, the first 67 measures of the Catalan model for digital wellbeing for children and adolescents have been agreed upon. This information was reported by elespanol.com.

This initial package is structured around six axes: governance and strategic planning; information, monitoring and evaluation; digital skills; vocational training; regulation; and support for families and minors. The aim is to ensure safe and healthy digital environments, prioritising the most vulnerable groups.

One of the highlighted points is the future specific law on digital wellbeing and child protection, which will be developed within the framework of this plan. Additionally, an observatory will be created to monitor risks and impacts of technology use on minors.

The Minister of Business and Labour, Miquel Sàmper, emphasised the importance of this initiative:

"Ensuring the digital wellbeing of children and adolescents is a priority for this government. It is an essential policy. That is why we are working to establish a regulatory framework that allows us to protect minors from harmful screen use"

. He also added that it is crucial to

"detect potential misuse early and support families"

The plan continues the commitment of President Salvador Illa for Catalonia to be the first autonomous community with its own model of children's digital wellbeing. It also aligns with the guide 'Recommendations for a healthy (+ conscious) digitalisation', recently published.

Among the specific measures, it includes setting 14 years as the criterion for the use of generative artificial intelligence in public services, accrediting digital skills, and removing harmful content through the Xarxaneta pilot. The Mossos d'Esquadra will contribute their investigative knowledge to develop materials for preventing digital risks.

The Catalan Strategy for the Digital Wellbeing of Childhood and Adolescence will be the reference document, and it will be coordinated with the National Council for Children and Adolescents of Catalonia (CNIAC). The measures will be developed in the coming months, with an eye on the future law.