FOSI Forum To Explore European Perspective on Online Safety

Brussels, Belgium – The Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI) will today convene a forum analysing the current state of online safety and future developments in Europe. With commentary from experts in the field, this discussion will aim to cultivate an understanding of priority issues across the continent, while maintaining the foundation of a global context.

The event will feature a keynote address from Jasmina Byrne, UNICEF Office of Research – Innocenti, with a focus on the evolving rights of children in a digital age. Based on these ideas, the panels will discuss the feasibility of safety by design amongst leading industry companies, how to create more and better positive content for kids online, and the implications of future technology trends such as enhanced mobile technology, wearable devices, and the Internet of Things.

The online safety focus in Europe over the past few years has resulted in increased privacy protections and better content for children. FOSI is eager to provide the necessary guidance and common space for those in industry, government, academia and the charity sector to conduct an open, solutions-based discussion around how to effectively shape and share best practices in Europe.

“We are thrilled for the opportunity to bring together great thinkers to discuss the challenges and benefits of the Internet, the future of online safety and the importance of privacy and safety by design,” says David Miles, FOSI’s European Director. “We are particularly pleased to be doing so in Brussels, as Europe’s place in confronting these issues is of great importance. We expect forward thinking and exciting conversations today.”

Complete information about the event, including a full list of speakers is available here. Sponsors of the event include Facebook, Google, Twitter and Orange. Commentary on the event can be followed via #fosiEU2015.

About FOSI

The Family Online Safety Institute is an international, non-profit organization that works to make the online world safer for kids and their families. FOSI convenes leaders in industry, government and the non-profit sectors to collaborate and innovate new solutions and policies in the field of online safety. Through research, resources, events and special projects, FOSI promotes a culture of responsibility online and encourages a sense of digital citizenship for all. FOSI's membership includes 30 of the leading Internet and telecommunications companies around the world.