At its 1554th meeting, held on 12 March 2026, the Committee of Ministers approved the establishment of a Drafting Committee on Risks and Harms of Online and Digital Addictions (BIO-ALN). This decision (CM/Del/Dec(2026)1554/6.2) follows the examination of the Committee’s Terms of Reference by the Council of Europe Rapporteur Group on Social and Health Questions (GR-SOC) at its meeting on 5 March 2026. The Drafting Committee is set up under Article 17 of the Statute of the Council of Europe, in accordance with Resolution CM/Res(2021)3-consolidated and will operate from 1 September 2026 to 31 December 2027 under the authority of the Committee of Ministers and the Steering Committee for Human Rights in the fields of Biomedicine and Health (CDBIO).
The Drafting Committee BIO-ALN will build on expert findings, scientific research and the policy document “Strategies and regulatory options aimed at reducing risks and harms related to online gaming and online gambling”.
BIO-ALN will bring together a multidisciplinary group composed of 15 experts designated by the most relevant Council of Europe’s Steering Committees and the Pompidou Group, as well as experts nominated by the Secretary General. Thus, ensuring a wide range of expertise in non-substance related addictions, safeguarding public health, regulation, and digital behaviour from mental health perspectives. It will also engage other Council of Europe bodies, observer States, international organisations, civil society and partners.
Through this process, the Council of Europe aims to provide member States with clear and comprehensive recommendations for addressing technology-facilitated addictions, with a focus on safeguarding health, human rights and social well-being.
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