Young Europeans create advice for staying safe online

Young people from across Europe have created a new guide to help their peers navigate the online world safely, securely, and responsibly.

From managing screen time and curating their digital footprint to respecting online boundaries, ‘Our Digital Pact’ has been led by a panel of more than 70 young people from six of Vodafone’s European markets.

By speaking up about what matters most to them, the young people have set out practical advice and key principles to help others stay safe online.

‘Our Digital Pact’ forms part of Vodafone’s ongoing commitment to listen, learn and act on their concerns.

What’s in the Digital Pact?

Nine key issues were found during youth led conversations held with Vodafone’s European Youth Council during 2025 in Germany, Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Turkey and the UK.

Managing screentime emerged as a significant challenge. To avoid doomscrolling and maintain balance, they recommend using digital wellbeing tools and setting healthy limits.

Because what goes online usually stays online, they are concerned about their own digital footprint and caution that young people should think before posting and not to overshare personal details.

Respecting online boundaries was also key. And setting limits and taking breaks is essential when the digital world starts to impact mental health.

Joakim Reiter, Vodafone Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer, said: “The concerns and advice shared by young people about their experiences online is powerful but also unsurprising. Vodafone is listening, and we are determined to play our part in making the online world a better place for young people. We hope that other stakeholders will also take note and play their part to address these issues.”

People from Vodafone’s European Youth Council who helped create ‘Our Digital Pact’ said….

Mahmut, 17, from Turkey: “Young people understand best how young people use the digital world. The experiences we have, the challenges or risks we face, are often very different from what adults imagine. That’s why guides prepared by young people in their own language are both more genuine and more connected to real life.”

Lena, 16, from Germany: “When companies listen to our opinions and ideas, they can create products and services that are safer and attractive to us at the same time. So it’s a win-win. This way, online offerings are not just better tailored, but we also feel more involved and respected.”

Nikolas, 16, from Greece: “For me, the opportunity that Vodafone gave me to talk with my peers about burning issues, which for our generation is internet safety. It’s the best thing as we exchange opinions, express our ideas without being judged but rather complemented and we feel active beings in society.”

Saskia, 17, from the UK: “Because young people actually live online, it’s part of our everyday life. Adults can give advice, but sometimes they don’t really get what it’s like growing up with social media, group chats or online trends. When guidance comes from people our own age, it feels more real and relatable, it’s advice that actually fits how we use the internet, not just what adults think we do.”

What happens next?

Today’s announcement reaffirms Vodafone’s commitment to listening and collaborating with young people to create a safer digital world.

By outlining their digital concerns, ‘Our Digital Pact’ also serves as a framework for policymakers and industry leaders to address the priorities of young people on the internet.

The European Youth Panel will meet regularly to advise on issues such as online safety, digital literacy, and emerging technologies. This will ensure that Vodafone’s initiatives continue to reflect the diverse and real-life perspectives of young people.

Vodafone has long championed safe online environments for young people, offering tools and resources that help everyone navigate the internet more safely.