A European Citizens' Initiative, "Stop Killing the Internet," is urging the European Commission to reject proposals for mandatory digital identity and age verification systems. The initiative argues that such systems pose a significant threat to fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, privacy, and access to information.

Proponents of the initiative fear that mandatory digital IDs and age verification could lead to widespread surveillance, censorship, and the exclusion of individuals who cannot or choose not to use these systems. They highlight the potential for these technologies to be misused by governments and corporations, creating a chilling effect on online discourse and personal autonomy.

The initiative calls for a rejection of any legislation that would mandate these technologies, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an open and accessible internet. It seeks to protect the ability of individuals to communicate and access information freely, without the burden of identification or age checks. The goal is to prevent the "killing of the internet" through the implementation of potentially oppressive digital infrastructure.