EU Executive VP Virkkunen Discusses Proposed EU KIDS Act

On September 17, 2026, Executive Vice-President Virkkunen delivered remarks in Strasbourg concerning the proposed EU KIDS Act, emphasizing the need to take control of children's futures.

This announcement signals a significant legislative initiative by the European Union aimed at addressing issues pertinent to children's well-being and future. The excerpt highlights extensive consultation with a diverse range of stakeholders, including parents, teachers, national leaders, and children themselves, underscoring the broad societal impact and comprehensive approach anticipated for this Act. While the specific content of the Act is not detailed, its focus on 'taking control of our kids' future' suggests it could encompass critical areas such as online safety, digital rights, data protection for minors, educational standards, and child protection. For legal practitioners, this indicates a forthcoming wave of regulations that will likely impose new obligations on various entities, particularly those operating in digital spaces or targeting younger audiences.

The legal context for an 'EU KIDS Act' would draw upon the EU's competence in areas such as fundamental rights, consumer protection, digital services, and social policy. The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, which includes specific provisions for the rights of the child, and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, would serve as foundational legal principles. Depending on its scope, the Act could interact with or build upon existing EU legislation like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) regarding children's data, the Digital Services Act (DSA) concerning online safety, or directives related to audiovisual media services. The legislative process would typically involve a proposal from the European Commission, followed by co-decision by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union, ensuring democratic scrutiny and broad consensus.

The key parties involved in this legislative development are Executive Vice-President Virkkunen, representing the European Commission, which is the driving force behind the proposed Act. Implicitly, the European Parliament and the Council will be key legislative bodies responsible for debating and adopting the Act. The broad consultation mentioned indicates that parents, teachers, national leaders, and children themselves are crucial stakeholders whose input is shaping the proposed legislation, reflecting a multi-faceted approach to policy-making.

Attorneys should immediately begin monitoring all developments related to the EU KIDS Act. Businesses, especially those in the technology, education, media, and consumer goods sectors that interact with or impact children, must anticipate new compliance requirements. Legal professionals will need to advise clients on potential changes to data handling practices, content moderation policies, marketing strategies targeting minors, and product safety standards. Understanding the scope and specific provisions of this Act will be critical for ensuring compliance, mitigating legal risks, and adapting business models once it progresses through the legislative pipeline. The outcome of this legislative proposal is not yet reported, but its potential impact on various industries and societal norms is significant.