Call for proposals for indirect actions under the multi-annual Community Programme on protecting children using the Internet and other communication technologies The European Commission has published a call for indirect actions under the multi-annual Community Programme on protecting children using the Internet and other communication technologies (Safer Internet). The Safer Internet initiative is based on four actions: - ensuring p... The European Commission has published a call for indirect actions under the multi-annual Community Programme on protecting children using the Internet and other communication technologies (Safer Internet). The Safer Internet initiative is based on four actions: - ensuring public awareness; - fighting against illegal content and tackling harmful conduct online; - promoting a safer online environment; - establishing a knowledge base. Safer Internet 2009-2013 will build on the Safer Internet Plus programme. The new intiative will not only fight illegal content but also harmful conduct such as grooming and bullying. Funds will also serve to develop expert knowledge about existing and emerging uses, risks and consequences of online technologies for children's lives, including the technical, psychological and sociological aspects of online-related abuse. Safer Internet brings together stakeholders who can contribute to make the internet safer. It funds, in particular, a network of non-governmental organisations active in the field of child welfare online, a network of law enforcement bodies who exchange information and best practices related to criminal exploitation of the internet and a network of researchers who gather information about uses, risks and consequences of online technologies for children's lives. The first and second parts of the call are to promote and the set up the operation of Safer Internet Centres across Europe to co-ordinate activities. They will also bring together a variety of stakeholders to ensure action and facilitate transfer of knowledge. The centres will be led by a network co-ordinator who will provide logistical and infrastructural support, ensuring European-level visibility, good communication and exchange of experience so that lessons learnt can be applied on an ongoing basis. The third action ('promoting a safer online environment') will set up a thematic network of European non-government organisations representing children's rights and welfare to develop a concerted approach by sharing experience and best practices, and by developing joint strategies, in order to ensure that the needs of children are taken into account in discussions about the internet and new media in Europe, as well as in relevant international fora. The fourth action will establish a knowledge base, consisting of a pilot knowledge enhancement project.To see the official call announcement in the Official Journal of the European Union please consult: OJ No C 71 of 5 March 2011
