Move helps create uniform legal framework to combat all forms of online child abuse
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The European Parliament voted overwhelmingly in favour of a directive that would criminalise the creation, possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) created using artificial intelligence. This landmark decision reflects a broad consensus across the political spectrum and demonstrates the EU’s commitment to protecting children online.
Lawmakers stressed the urgent need to address this emerging threat, noting that AI-generated CSAM can desensitise people and potentially lead to real-world abuse. Research has shown a strong correlation between viewing offensive content and an increased risk of committing contact crimes against minors.
The directive goes beyond addressing AI-generated imagery. It creates a uniform legal framework across the EU to combat all forms of online child abuse, including grooming, sextortion and livestreaming of abuse. It is important to extend reporting deadlines for sexual abuse, as many victims take years to report it.
The proposal also seeks to ban so-called ‘pedophile manuals,’ which provide instructions on how to manipulate children and evade detection. This comprehensive approach aims to create a safer online environment for children across the European Union.
While Parliament’s vote is an important step forward, negotiations will now begin between Parliament, the EU Council and the European Commission to finalise the law. There were initial disagreements over the criminalisation of AI-generated CSAM and the definition of the age of consent. However, strong advocacy from MEPs, industry groups and child protection organisations urged ministers to align with the Parliament’s position.
The ultimate goal is to create a robust legal framework that effectively protects children from online sexual abuse and exploitation. This collaboration between lawmakers, tech companies and child safety advocates highlights the EU’s commitment to prioritising the wellbeing of its youngest citizens.
In a joint response, both child rights organisations and the tech sector welcomed the European Parliament’s decision. ECLAG and DOT Europe call on member states to follow Parliament’s lead and explicitly criminalise all forms of child abuse, including AI-generated material, in the final directive. The explosion of online abuse and technological evolutions such as AI make urgent and concerted action necessary. According to the organisations, any form of child abuse – digital or physical, real or synthetic – is a serious threat to children and must be addressed without exception.
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