Balkans raise child safety measures as accidents and online risks surge

Croatian children’s ombudsman Tatjana Katkić Stanić warned that children are exposed to numerous safety hazards this summer, ranging from traffic accidents and unsafe swimming spots to risks on the internet. She cited the recent Metković tragedy where a 15‑year‑old died after falling from an electric scooter, noting that accidents involving children have almost doubled in the last ten years and that 136 offences involved minors operating such vehicles. She urged parents not to buy electric scooters or other motorised toys, to supervise children at beaches and camps, to avoid sharing children’s photos publicly, and called for stricter oversight of staff who work with minors.

In Montenegro, Interior Minister Danilo Šaranović announced that a ban on social‑media use for people under 16 is under consideration, describing it as a step toward protecting mental health and aiding the fight against organized crime. Psychologist Radmila Stupar Đurišić likened the proposal to existing age limits for driving, alcohol and gambling, while IT expert Dejan Abazović stressed the need for verification tools, parental controls and platform responsibility. The measure is being debated in the Montenegrin parliament with support from several political parties and NGOs.