A new analysis by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) shows the urgency in addressing cyberbullying across the EU
The analysis highlights the significant difference in how countries define and respond to the problem. The study suggests that a shared, scientifically validated definition significantly strengthens Europe’s ability to protect children and young people online.
A problem growing faster than prevention
Cyberbullying has become a widespread problem affecting a rising number of children and adolescents. Despite various awareness campaigns and school initiatives, the prevalence of online harassment continues to increase.
Many young people report repeated victimisation through digital platforms, where aggression can occur at any time and spread rapidly to large audiences.
Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying is defined by the nature of digital spaces. Harmful behaviour can persist long after the initial act due to viral sharing, and anonymity can encourage actions that might not occur face-to-face. The digital context also alters power dynamics: an imbalance may be rooted in technological competence rather than physical strength or social status.
Understanding what defines cyberbullying
The JRC’s review of scientific literature identifies several key elements common to existing definitions of cyberbullying. These include repeated exposure to harm and a clear power imbalance between the victim and the perpetrator. Hostile actions must be mediated through digital technologies, and the behaviour often involves targeted attacks on specific individuals or groups.
Because countries use different interpretations of cyberbullying, collecting comparable data and coordinating responses remains difficult. The study argues that a unified definition across Member States would improve policy coherence and enable more effective joint action.
Risk factors and protective influences
The research shows a range of factors that can increase a young person’s vulnerability to cyberbullying. Age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, minority status, and even academic giftedness can influence risk levels. At the same time, strong peer and teacher support, positive family relationships, and regular physical activity can reduce exposure and lessen the adverse effects of online victimisation.
Targeted school-based interventions are among the most effective solutions. Programmes that combine education with digital skills training and actively involve families show auspicious outcomes. The study finds that focused measures explicitly aimed at cyberbullying tend to outperform broader online safety campaigns.
Uneven national measures across the EU
EU Member States rely on a mix of educational tools, awareness efforts, and legal frameworks to address cyberbullying. While all have legislation covering harassment and other forms of online harm, not all include cyberbullying as a distinct legal concept. This inconsistency can make it difficult for young people to understand when harmful online behaviour crosses the line into illegal activity.
The JRC recommends an integrated strategy that balances legal tools with psychosocial support and targeted education. Such an approach, it argues, would not only help prevent cyberbullying but also provide young people with the skills needed to recognise and respond to harmful online situations.
A safer digital environment
The study forms part of broader EU efforts to create a safer online world for children and adolescents. It contributes to the development of the upcoming EU Action Plan against cyberbullying. It complements ongoing initiatives such as age-verification frameworks, guidelines for protecting minors under the Digital Services Act, and the Better Internet for Kids Strategy.
