Italy’s parliament passed a groundbreaking artificial intelligence law that includes robust protections for children under 14. The legislation, championed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, is the first in Europe to require strict parental consent for minors using any AI system or application, directly addressing concerns over child safety and privacy in today’s digital era.
With clear human-centric principles, transparency, and security requirements, the law emphasizes the welfare of young people as paramount.
Its strict provisions reflect growing worries about the psychological, developmental, and privacy risks posed by widespread AI adoption among children.
What Are the Key Child Protection Provisions in Italy’s AI Law?
The law sets a high bar for AI access: children younger than 14 must get explicit parental consent before interacting with any AI platform or technology.
Schools, tech companies, and service providers are responsible for verifying and managing this consent.
These requirements extend to commercial and educational platforms alike, making Italy the strictest EU nation for minor digital engagement.
Other important elements involve transparency, age verification, and clear communication regarding how children’s data may be used.
The law requires developers to build systems with safeguards that prevent children’s unsupervised access, and violations can lead to immediate service suspension or legal action.
Did you know?
Italy’s new AI law is the first in the EU to mandate parental consent for all AI system use by children under 14.
Why Did Italy Enact Parental Consent Requirements for Under-14s?
Lawmakers recognized a growing risk: minors increasingly access AI-powered tools ranging from chatbots to social media algorithms without understanding privacy and long-term consequences.
By requiring parental approval, Italy aims to prevent misuse, addiction, and data exposure in vulnerable populations.
The measure also addresses fears that aggressive AI marketing tactics could exploit younger users.
“Children need protection. This law brings innovation back within the perimeter of public interest,” stated Alessio Butti, Italy’s undersecretary for digital transformation.
He emphasized safeguarding fundamental rights while fostering responsible innovation.
How Does the Law Address AI Risks Like Deepfakes and Fraud?
Beyond consent, Italy’s law introduces significant criminal penalties for AI-related abuses, especially deepfakes. Unlawful dissemination of AI-generated content designed to cause harm, such as manipulated images or videos, carries prison sentences ranging from one to five years.
The use of AI for fraud, identity theft, or market manipulation increases sentences by a third. The legislation makes child safety central to digital transformation.
It aims to prevent both the psychological harm of seeing inappropriate deepfake content and the risk of falling victim to fraudulent schemes, ensuring the welfare of minors in all digital environments.
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Who Oversees AI Implementation and Ensures Compliance?
Italy tasked the Agency for Digital Italy and the National Cybersecurity Agency as its national AI regulators. These authorities work with law enforcement and industry to monitor compliance, investigate violations, and guide businesses toward protecting children’s rights. Financial sector watchdogs retain oversight powers relevant to their sectors.
Schools and employers must inform families and workers whenever AI is deployed, and healthcare professionals must retain decision-making authority even when AI assists with diagnosis or treatment. Cross-sector rules maintain rigorous human oversight throughout every phase of AI use.
Is Italy’s Approach Likely to Influence Other European Nations?
Neighboring EU members are closely examining Italy's new child protection rules, as they are the first to pass such comprehensive AI legislation.
Many analysts expect the law will serve as a blueprint for future regulations across Europe, especially for youth safety online.
Some critics, however, argue stricter rules could slow innovation if not paired with robust support for startups and research.
Italy’s pioneering rules signal a shift in global thinking about digital rights and privacy. With €1 billion allocated for innovation and oversight, the nation aims to lead on both safety and technological competitiveness.
Other nations will closely monitor the successful balancing of strict child protection with dynamic AI development.
Italy’s AI law is a watershed for Europe, putting children’s welfare and robust parental control at the center of digital transformation.
Its approach may well spark wider adoption of child-focused AI rules worldwide, offering a new model for both technological innovation and digital safety.
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