Empowering learners of all ages across Europe
Culminating the European Year of Digital Citizenship Education 2025, the Council of Europe and Google have joined forces in an ambitious new partnership, marking a significant step forward in advancing digital citizenship education. This strategic collaboration recognises the pivotal role of equipping young people and learners of all ages with the knowledge and skills to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape, with a strong emphasis on online safety, media and information literacy, and artificial intelligence (AI) literacy.
Shared expertise for the digital age
Both partners bring unique strengths. The Council of Europe contributes its policy expertise and educational frameworks, while Google offers technological innovation and a suite of widely accessible education programmes. Drawing on their experience in developing impactful educational initiatives - such as "Be Internet Awesome", "Be Internet Citizens", "Super Searchers", "Experience AI", and "Meet Leo"- the partnership aims to strengthen efforts to reach users of all ages throughout the Council of Europe member states. These programmes are designed to foster not only digital competence, but also to empower users and civil society with practical skills for safe and responsible online participation, especially in relation to AI awareness and online safety.
Ambitious aims
- Promoting digital citizenship education across Council of Europe member states;
- Addressing opportunities and challenges relating to digital technologies, with special attention to artificial intelligence;
- Supporting schools and education stakeholders and institutions in embracing effective digital citizenship education practices;
- Advancing access to high-quality resources and innovative methods, enabling widespread digital literacy and inclusion.
Building Capacity
The collaboration will provide targeted support to partners, educational institutions, and communities. Capacity-building initiatives will focus on AI and online safety education, offering resources for children, learners, parents, teachers, and the wider community.
Enhancing International Co-operation
Both organisations will support the implementation of the Council of Europe Road Map for Strengthening Digital Citizenship Education 2027-2031, co-organise and participate in major events, and help amplify new educational resources such as the Council of Europe's DCE Planner. These efforts are intended to mainstream digital citizenship principles through innovative Google initiatives and programmes.
The partnership aims to mainstream digital citizenship by embedding a joint commitment to AI literacy and online safety education particularly for minors into Europe's education ambitions.
An impact-driven partnership
By signing the Memorandum of Understanding the partners aim at paving the way for learner-centred, human rights-based digital transformation in education. This strictly collaborative approach, with no financial obligations involved, will be driving positive impact through exchange of expertise, innovative programming, and a shared vision for a safer, more inclusive European digital society.
European year of digital citizenship education 2025
Digital Citizenship Education - Education
