Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000564/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Liesbet Sommen (PPE)
There has already been extensive research into the negative impact of social media platforms on the mental health of vulnerable groups, such as young girls and people from the LGBTQ community. Ninety-six percent of young people in the EU use the internet daily; for the population as a whole, the figure is 90%. In addition to addictive algorithms and negative effects on self-image and self-esteem, these platforms also run potentially life-threatening algorithms. Last November, two young girls committed suicide after being exposed to content about suicide and self-harm. Platforms such as TikTok contain a myriad of videos that promote eating disorders and suicide. A year and a half ago, Amnesty International published reports highlighting the negative effects on young TikTok users. The research shows how manipulative and addictive TikTok is and how its algorithm recommends life-threatening content, such as romanticising suicide, to children and young people with mental problems.
Will the Digital Fairness Act also focus on vulnerable groups, and when can the Commission’s proposal be expected?
Submitted: 7.2.2025