Cyberbullying, SMEs digitalization and AI at the core of Micallef hearing 

Cyberbullying, the digitization of SMEs, new challenges linked to AI and the possibility of creating safe spaces online, especially for young people who spend a lot of time surfing the Internet. These were the main topics touched upon the hearing of the Maltese Glenn Micallef, Commissioner-designate for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sports. 

“Diversity, fairness and solidarity have always been the cornerstone of the European Union, and they will play a vital role in my term as Commissioner – stated Micallef – I will assist the President in setting up the Youth Advisory Body, pledging to ensure the representation of youth across member states and communities. These actions will be complemented by an EU check, which I intend to use as a key tool to empower young people”.

Among the questions addressed to the Commissioner candidate, the ECR Italian MEP Marco Squarta focused on the digitization of SMEs. “The transition to digital is very complicated, especially for those who are the custodians of our innovation, but they need money and training. What strategies are you going to adopt to assist SMEs in digitization?” asked Squarta.

The Commissioner-designate Micallef replied that “EU has to invest efforts to have a cultural compass harnessing different dimensions in the Union and promote culture in other areas, for example, by working with the Commissioner designate for digital and innovation”. 

Marcos Ros Sempere from S&D chose instead to focus on building a safe space on the internet for young people.  “It means actively protecting them from the dangers of online exploitation. It is crucial to invest in digital literacy and age verification services for online content”.

“Hatred, bullying, and harassment have no place in our society – stated Micallef – This applies both to the physical and virtual worlds. We have taken significant steps forward, such as the DSA, which already includes specific rules that very large online platforms and search engines must comply with regarding age verification and age-appropriate controls. But now is the time to take the next step. We need a strategy that considers that the more time people spend online, the greater the risk and exposure to cyberbullying. The strategy on cyberbullying will go hand in hand with the work of the Commissioner designate for tech sovereignty on EU-wide inquiries into the effects of social media”. 

On the topic of AI, raised by Epp MEP Manuela Ripa, Micallef explained that the EU needs a tailor-made approach specifically for the cultural industry. He also underlined the need to promote and ethical and fair use of AI, ensuring transparency and encouraging collaboration between the technology and cultural industries to unlock the potential of artificial intelligence in this field as well. 

“If confirmed, I will deliver a new strategic framework to connect culture’s multiple dimensions with the Commission’s broader political priorities, delivering a holistic approach. We must ensure that culture benefits from future technologies like AI brings unique opportunities, offering tools to complement artistic skills and unlock new forms of expression – added Micallef during the hearing -. We are also aware of the challenges and risks associated with AI. Change can be difficult, but by harnessing its potential and mitigating the risks, we can strengthen Europe’s artistic leadership in the digital age”.