S&Ds hold online marketplaces accountable for selling dangerous toys and secure the protection of kids from toxic chemicals

The European Council, the Commission, and the Parliament have reached an agreement on the EU Toys Safety Regulation. This EU law aims to reduce the number of dangerous toys that still find their way into consumers’ hands. The Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament contributed in establishing a digital product passport to facilitate traceability, and that toys emitting a sound will not exceed the maximum values set in the directive on minimum health and safety requirements of workers* to avoid damaging children’s hearing. Their group also succeeded in restricting the presence of harmful chemicals in toys.

Brando Benifei, S&D MEP and shadow rapporteur on the Toys Safety Regulation, said: “With today’s agreement, we are taking a big leap forward in the protection of our children. “We made it clear that online marketplaces will be also responsible in ensuring that the toys we buy for our children do not pose problems to their mental health or physical integrity. According to the final agreement, online marketplaces will not sell toys considered as dangerous products that pose a clear risk to children, and the adults, that play with them. This was a crucial aspect during the negotiations due to the importance that online marketplaces have in the way we shop.

“Thanks to the Socialists and Democrats, it will be ensured that manufacturers of digitally connected toys, such as watches, tablets or educational robots, will take into account the risk to children’s mental health from the conception of the toy. They must ensure that the products they put on the market not only meet the highest standards of safety, but also those of security and privacy.”

Victor Negrescu, S&D MEP and rapporteur on the Toys Safety Regulation in the ENVI committee, said: “Every day, children are exposed to harmful chemical substances found in consumer products, including toys, which put their health and development at risk. This is why we are proud to have banned the use of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as well as the most toxic bisphenols in toys. These highly toxic substances are linked to a wide range of health problems, including childhood cancers, autoimmune disorders and reduced cardiovascular and metabolic functionality.

“We also managed to ban the use of allergenic fragrances in toys for children under 36 months. “Today’s agreement marks a step forward in making children’s health a priority by ensuring that toys made and sold in any member state are safe.”

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