CONNECT calls on international organisations, primarily the European Union and the Council of Europe, to further explore “soft issues advocating for a holistic approach to understanding and safeguarding the digital social rights of youth. This involves recognizing the challenges they face and providing them with the knowledge to exercise and protect their rights online. To do so, we would recommend to develop a standardized digital citizenship curriculum for EU educational systems.

Much discussion has revolved around infrastructure and connectivity and human rights online (to a certain extent), with a growing emphasis on digital skills, particularly in light of the European Year of Skills. However, the right to be digital encompasses a broader spectrum, especially considering the advancements in new technologies. This is crucial to ensuring that every citizen has the right to access and actively engage in online realms, taking advantage of the digital revolution and the opportunities it provides, while at the same time being able to nurture European values in online spaces. Furthermore, CONNECT calls for an open debate on citizenship in virtual realms, particularly in virtual worlds, and starts preparing authorities across Europe to proactively participate in it, as e-governance has a significant potential to expand in virtual worlds as well. So we recommend for the development of a draft a charter that outlines the principles and standards for citizenship and governance in virtual spaces, Launch pilot programs to test the viability and impact of virtual citizenship initiatives.

Connect International recomends that Council of Europe and the European Union foster participatory and innovative democratic practices that actively involve young citizens, facilitated by national and European digital initiatives, rather just informing them. We call for further funding for development of digital platforms that enhance civic engagement and develop digital solutions for citizen involvement that are accessible to youth.

Digital participation is a fundamental element of Digital Citizenship. In an era where participation is evolving with the development of new technologies, new forms of engagement are emerging, and young people are more inclined to use these technologies for various novel forms of participation, which are often less structured compared to traditional methods.

Recognising that grassroots and participatory democratic processes have strengthened democracy and the rule of law worldwide (e.g., public budgeting, citizens’ forums, e-petitions, etc.), especially at institutional levels, there is an opportunity to expand and enhance these initiatives through the use of digital solutions (e.g., electronic voting systems, crowdsourcing platforms, public monitoring and transparency practices, etc.). Such an approach would ensure broader access to these practices and facilitate their cost-effective implementation by public sector stakeholders.

CONNECT International recommends a two-pronged strategy to enhance digital participation for youth: expanding information dissemination platforms and investing in technologies that foster inclusive and quality participation.

Promoting meaningful youth participation online relies on the foundation of reliable, high-quality information as a necessity. While we welcome the efforts of EU institutions, particularly the EU Parliament, in establishing online platforms for participation, we advocate for the expansion of such initiatives at both the EU and national levels. It is crucial to emphasise that new modes of participation should be accompanied by the provision of accurate and comprehensive information to empower young citizens. This, in turn, will facilitate open dialogues, foster connections between citizens and policymakers, and bolster well-informed decision-making.

CONNECT advocates for a strategic partnership among stakeholders to update and broaden the scope of DCE.This partnership should bring together educators, industry experts, young people, non-formal education providers, and technology companies. Connect international recommends a development of DCE curriculum that incorporates the latest digital trends and interdisciplinary approaches and implement training programs for educators to ensure they are equipped to teach the updated DCE curriculum effectively. As well as establish partnerships with technology companiesto provide resources, insights, and cutting-edge tools for DCE.

In the 21st century, Digital Citizenship Education (DCEducation) plays a pivotal role in shaping responsible online behaviour among young people. However, many existing DCE programmes, particularly at the national level, often fall short in addressing the rapidly changing digital landscape and the complex issues presented by emerging technologies. To address this, it’s crucial to involve young people in creating and delivering DCE curricula. This not only ensures that the content remains relevant and effective but also fosters a sense of ownership and active participation among the youth.

CONNECT advocates for the creation of “Partnerships for Young People in the Digital Age,” spearheaded by the European Union and the Council of Europe, to develop global standards for digital citizenship that reflect the needs and rights of young internet users worldwide.

The internet has evolved into a global playground where young people frequently interact with content and users from various countries. In this digital era, it is crucial for authorities to recognise the importance of addressing cross-border issues and fostering responsible global digital citizenship among youth. Youth organisations can play a pivotal role in supporting these efforts. By acknowledging the global nature of the internet, governments and youth organisations can collaborate to ensure that young people can navigate the digital world responsibly, regardless of their geographical location.

These partnerships would focus on sharing best practices and establishing global standards for digital citizenship among young people to ensure a consistent and effective approach to these issues. Furthermore, they should actively encourage youth-led initiatives that promote positive online interactions and cross-cultural cooperation among young people from various countries, not limited to Europe. Additionally, ensuring the protection of the rights and privacy of young internet users remains an important element, especially in the youth field.

Connect International urges for the development of AI regulations across fields and promote AI education within formal and non-formal systems.

This ensures that innovation occurs within a secure and ethical environment while upholding human rights and European values. Furthermore, we call on the respective national ministries of education and ministries responsible for youth to establish AI learning centres and coordinate the development of curricula within formal and non-formal educational systems that address AI learning.

Rapid advancements in AI have accelerated its use and application across various industries at a pace that surpasses initial expectations, and it has had a more significant impact on citizenship than originally anticipated. While both the EU and the CoE aim to establish general AI governance frameworks for safe innovation, there is an urgent need to expedite negotiations regarding these frameworks and initiate negotiations on specific AI topics. AI presents both opportunities and challenges for various fields and stakeholders, particularly concerning human rights. It has the potential to empower citizens to access their rights while also imposing limitations. CONNECT International welcomes the efforts of both the EU and the CoE in developing international AI regulations and calls for the acceleration of the negotiation processes.

Connect International advocates for a policy initiative aimed at standardizing T&Cs across Member States to ensure they are presented in a format that is accessible and understandable to young users. This initiative should address both private and public sector services, especially those incorporating new technologies such as AI.

A significant number of consumers, especially young people, often feel overwhelmed by the lengthy and complex T&Cs presented by various stakeholders. Introduce legislation requiring companies to provide a summarized version of their T&Cs, alongside the full version, which must include key points such as data usage, privacy, and user rights, in language suitable for younger users. As well as mandate the inclusion of visual aids, such as infographics and interactive elements, to help explain complex terms within T&Cs. All trough this process we would recommend an establishment of a youth consultation process to receive feedback on the clarity and user-friendliness of T&Cs.

Although T&Cs may not seem particularly significant, they do indeed have a great impact on digital citizenship, especially among young people, influencing how they access information, participate, learn, and engage online.