European Parliament backs campaign for EU-wide anti-cyberbullying law

The European Parliament's formal backing of Coco's Law marks a significant step in the fight against cyberbullying across the European Union. This move, championed by the mother of Nicole 'Coco' Fox, whose tragic death in 2018 after enduring relentless cyberbullying spurred the creation of the law in Ireland, resonates deeply with our commitment to safeguarding young people in the digital age.

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It is needed to protect young people from online abuse.

While the resolution, now heading to the European Commission, aims to standardize the criminalization of online bullying and its penalties across all member states, it's not without its detractors. Certain right-wing factions have raised concerns about potential impacts on free speech and online debate. However, the overwhelming support from MEPs, including a majority across the EU and all Irish MEPs, underscores the urgent need for such protective measures.

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Coco's Law has helped protect other young people, while Coco's mother Jackie has campaigned for it to be replicated in other countries.

From an Irish perspective, this is a moment of profound vindication. Coco's Law, enacted in 2020, has already proven instrumental in protecting young lives at home. Jackie Fox's tireless campaigning on the international stage, bringing her daughter's story to the European Parliament, highlights the power of personal advocacy in driving legislative change. This EU-wide adoption would not only extend vital protections but also serve as a powerful message that online abuse will not be tolerated.

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The planned EU-wide law aims to criminalise online bullying, as well as defining the offence in the same way across all EU member states, including carrying the same penalties.