Youth Policy Dialogue: Digital Fairness Act

Young Europeans invited to share their ideas about fairness in the digital environment.
 

The Youth Dialogue will place young people at the centre of discussions on the upcoming Digital Fairness Act, a proposal aimed at strengthening consumer protection online, particularly for children and young people.

The event will bring together 28 participants from the European Union and the Western Balkans, giving them the opportunity to share their views directly with Commissioner Michael McGrath and contribute to shaping future digital policy.

Key discussion topics will cover young people’s everyday digital experiences—what works well and what feels confusing across social media, streaming, gaming, and online shopping alongside concerns about unfair practices such as hidden costs, difficult subscription cancellations, and manipulative “dark patterns.” 

Participants will also examine addictive design features like infinite scrolling, autoplay, and reward systems that encourage excessive use or spending, as well as the transparency of influencer marketing and whether limits should be placed on influencer's promoting certain products to young audiences. The dialogue will further explore the pros and cons of age restrictions on access to social media and invite ideas on how to build a more transparent, respectful, and youth-friendly digital environment.

The session will be moderated by Jahkini Bisselink, a former UN Youth Representative who has advocated for youth rights, sustainable development, and inclusion in global policymaking, and who continues to mobilise young people through public speaking and social engagement. 

She will be joined by Dylan Ahern, co-founder of De Kiesmannen, known for making politics accessible to young audiences and for hosting major European youth events, including collaborations with the European Parliament and European Commission.

Read the full report:  Youth Policy Dialogue Report on the Digital Fairness Act