The EU actively promotes media literacy among young Europeans as part of its commitment to fostering digital skills, critical thinking, and informed citizenship. One of the key policy instruments in this regard is the Digital Education Action Plan, outlined in the 2018 Digital Education Action Plan (COM/2018/22). This initiative seeks to enhance digital competence and media literacy at all levels of education. It emphasises the importance of supporting young Europeans to develop the skills necessary to navigate the digital world, critically assess information, and understand the implications of media content.
The EU also supports media literacy through the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD), as revised in 2018 (Directive (EU) 2018/1808). The directive mandates that all EU Member States encourage media literacy and protect minors from harmful content. The AVMSD promotes actions aimed at increasing the public’s awareness and understanding of audiovisual and online content, emphasising the need for citizens to critically appraise media.
These policy frameworks illustrate the EU’s commitment to enhancing media literacy among young Europeans. By integrating media literacy into education and fostering awareness of the digital landscape’s nuances, the EU aims to empower young individuals to navigate the information age with confidence and discernment. This approach not only supports them with crucial skills but also bolsters their capacity to engage in informed and responsible citizenship.