Eurobarometer shows strong EU concern over children’s online safety

A new Flash Eurobarometer survey shows that Europeans want stronger EU action to protect children online.

The survey, released in June 2026, finds that cyberbullying and harassment are the top concern, cited by 71% of respondents. Online grooming and sexual exploitation follow at 70%, while 69% are concerned about harmful content and the misuse of children’s personal data.

Nearly two-thirds of Europeans support EU rules limiting children’s access to social media by age. Some 36% favour a ban below a certain age, while 27% support delaying access.

The survey also shows strong concern about disinformation. Two-thirds of Europeans use social media every day to get information on politics or current affairs. Respondents identified tougher sanctions for illegal online content, stronger platform rules, and clear labelling of AI-generated or manipulated content as key priorities.

On democracy, Europeans ranked freedom of speech, free and fair elections, and respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights as the most important pillars of a democratic society.

The survey also found growing support for a stronger EU defence capacity. A majority of respondents, 68%, said the EU should strengthen its ability to defend itself autonomously against external threats.

Energy policy was another priority. More than half of respondents said developing more renewable energy capacity could help the EU move away from fossil fuels.

Flash Eurobarometer 584 was conducted online from 19 to 24 June 2026. It surveyed 25,904 EU citizens across all 27 member states.