Reading is a fundamental skill, but many children struggle with reading. Poor literacy weakens people’s future prospects; socially and economically. It challenges critical thinking and engagement with complex content that should enable us to make informed decisions, engage in society and business, and be adaptable.
As publishers we want to be able to continue publishing high-quality books and credible, quality journalism. Content that makes children want to read; that informs and initiates important debates, makes us wiser about ourselves and the world around us, and provides quality content for teaching.
This requires us to be innovative. But it also requires that the framework for our business is up to date, a level playing field, and that we have a clear plan of ensuring that children have strong reading skills.
We hope that the new EU Commission, the EU Parliament and Denmark will use the new term and EU Presidency to put the AI, algorithms and addictive practices of tech platforms towards children at the top of the political agenda. We owe it to the next generation.
Together with Danske Medier Dicle Duran Nielsen and Danske Forlag Christine Bødtcher-Hansen DPCMO have written a contribution to the debate.