7.Y.1. PechaKucha: Policies to protect children from online harms: Experiences from Finland, Europe and beyond

Abstract Following last year's well-received EPH workshop on social media and digital threats to young people, this Pecha Kucha session turns the spotlight to policy-level solutions. As children and adolescents face mounting risks online - from harmful content and adult contact to addictive platform features and data exploitation - public health actors and policymakers are under growing pressure to respond. Yet global action remains uneven in pace and scope. In this rapid-format session, four speakers will share international insights on building a safer digital environment. Topics include: the current evidence base and key research gaps; recent developments in Dutch school policy and national strategies; global comparisons featuring Australia and Norway's age-based restrictions; and regulatory achievements to counter harmful effects of these technologies. The session aims to share promising responses, stimulate cross-country learning, and highlight the role of public health professionals in shaping digital safety for the next generation. Key messages • An overview and exploration of global policy and advocacy approaches to protect children from digital harms, with insights from Europe and the world. • Interactively share evidence and innovations on regulating tech, empowering communities, and shaping safer digital environments for young people, to inform and inspire conference attendees.