Commissioner Deguara highlights the need for strong legal and educational measures to tackle cyberbullying

12 November 2025

The Information and Data Protection Commissioner (IDPC), Ian Deguara, participated in a panel discussion during the conference “Beyond the Screen: Cyberbullying Across Work and Learning Environments”, organised by bBrave and held at the Malta Stock Exchange on 11 November 2025. The event brought together experts from diverse sectors to discuss the growing impact of cyberbullying and to explore effective strategies for prevention and intervention.

Speaking during the panel “Bold Solutions for Cyber Safety”, Commissioner Deguara underscored the urgent need for a holistic approach to combat cyberbullying and strengthen the online protection of children. He identified three essential ingredients in this effort:
1️⃣ A strong and effective legal framework,
2️⃣ Education, awareness, and information, and
3️⃣ Robust enforcement mechanisms.

Mr Deguara emphasised that under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), children are afforded special protection (Recital 38) due to their limited awareness of the risks associated with data processing. He noted that balancing fundamental rights, such as data protection and freedom of expression, is vital—no right is absolute.

The Commissioner further remarked that emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and social media platforms, act as a double-edged sword, bringing both innovation and new risks. He highlighted that under the Digital Services Act (Article 28), online platforms accessible to minors must ensure a high level of privacy, safety, and security. Age assurance measures, he explained, are key tools for compliance, with the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) confirming their lawful basis under the GDPR.

Commissioner Deguara also drew attention to the critical role of parents in guiding children’s digital behaviour. He encouraged parents to understand how social media algorithms are designed to capture attention and to promote balance through physical activity and offline engagement.

The “Beyond the Screen” conference, hosted by bBrave, featured contributions from government representatives, academics, industry experts, and civil society. Discussions focused on the multifaceted nature of cyberbullying in both educational and professional settings, highlighting the need for coordinated action across legal, technological, and social dimensions.