MEP Alex Agius Saliba raised concerns about excessive internet use and the addictive nature of digital services like games, social media, and streaming platforms. He highlighted the real issue of digital addiction, particularly affecting children and young people, leading to mental health risks.

Following lawsuits in the US against Meta for the addictive nature of Instagram and Facebook, MEPs in the EU Parliament endorsed a report addressing online services’ addictive designs and their impact on mental health. This marks a significant step in combatting manipulative digital practices, especially among children.

Agius Saliba stressed that many online services are designed to keep users hooked, causing tangible harm. He emphasized the need for EU intervention to break this cycle, as self-discipline alone is insufficient.

This attention to excessive internet use is a first at the European level. Agius Saliba warned that digital addictions pose a significant challenge, and without intervention, the negative effects will persist for generations. He also highlighted the impact on children and adolescents, affecting their attention spans and cognitive development.

Agius Saliba expressed satisfaction with the report’s progressive messages, advocating for new laws to protect individuals and urging platforms to create ethical digital products. The report also introduces a “digital right not to be disturbed” and suggests positive design practices, like defaulting to fewer notifications and warnings for excessive screen time.

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