EPA-President Johannes Theiner was invited by Joanna Skrzydlewska to contribute to a Public Hearing dealing with Sexualisation of Girls. The hearing was organised by EPP-FEMM, The European People`s Parties working group on women`s rights and attended by a number of MEPs. Presentations will be shared as well as the link to the report that will be presented and dscussed by the Parliament in July 2012.

Though EPA has not yet discussed this topic it seems relevant to focus the discussion about (ab)use of the internet on the impact on the self esteem and role models of girls (and boys). It is our task to sensitise parents on the hidden control that is taken over by fashion, virtual communities, TV and internet to place social standards and “ideals” for our teenage children.

The important role of parents was referenced by all speakers and the EPA-claims were accepted and applauded.