Cyberbullying: Insights from science, policy and legislation

This report provides a comprehensive overview of key insights on cyberbullying drawn from scientific literature, policy documents and legislation. The prevalence of cyberbullying, a form of cyber‑aggression and broader online violence, is growing worldwide and affects individuals and societies. Although policymakers and researchers have worked to define and address it, no definition is currently universally accepted, impeding comparable research and coordinated policy action. The report argues that a standard definition should state that cyberbullying involves the use of digital information and communication technologies but should remain technology agnostic (i.e., avoid mentioning specific types of systems, applications or devices). Furthermore, it should acknowledge that it is characterised by the repetitive nature of harm triggered by the behaviour of an individual or group that is in a power imbalanced relationship, enabled by the social context in which it occurs. It summarises scientific findings on risk and protective factors and on interventions, highlighting that programmes combining education, skills development and parental involvement achieve the best outcomes. The analysis of policy and national legislation reveals fragmented approaches across EU Member States, underscoring the need for harmonised definitions and legal frameworks. The recommendations are directly relevant to the upcoming EU Action Plan against cyberbullying, the Better Internet for Kids strategy, and the Commission’s broader 2024‑2029 priorities to protect children online.