PEGI & Safer Internet Day are turning 20 !

This year marks significant landmarks for two remarkable initiatives that saw the light shortly after the turn of the century, when the digital society was gearing up to take off at full speed: Safer Internet Day and PEGI. 

With PEGI founded in 2003 (now marking its 20th year) and Safer Internet Day first celebrated in 2004 (now marking its 20th edition), both organisations aimed to broaden the understanding of the digital ecosystems that were unfolding: PEGI specifically focuses on helping parents make informed decisions about video games, while Safer Internet Day is the annual culmination of an entire network’s efforts to guide people towards a safe online experience. 

And also today, both organisations are still going strong. In fact, their messages have converged to a significant degree, as the social and online aspects of video games are taking a central role in player’s experiences, while the online society is influenced substantially by video game culture. 

The pace at which technology evolves means that there is a continuous need for information and education: parents seek answers in a complex and sometimes overwhelming environment to ensure that children can play, have fun, learn and connect in a safe way. Young people growing up in a digital age need advice and direction to develop the necessary skills to recognise potential risks, but also to take advantage of the chances that an online environment them.

The digital world may no longer be the same as in 2003, but the role of Safer Internet Day is more relevant than ever, and PEGI’s mission to help parents understand how playing games can fit into daily family life remains a top priority. 
In 2023, PEGI will collaborate with partners to support a number of campaigns across Europe, including Safer Internet Day, to encourage safe and responsible online gameplay.

Find out more about PEGI’s plans for Safer Internet Day 2023 at:
https://www.saferinternetday.org/supporters/pegi