A recent global study has shed light on the growing issue of excessive internet use, revealing that millions of people across Europe and beyond spend almost “constantly” connected to the web.
The survey, conducted by the US-based Pew Research Center earlier this year, found that a median of 28 per cent of respondents across 24 countries admit to being online nearly all the time.
The study underscores the escalating global concern over digital dependency and its potential consequences, particularly for young people. Researchers have increasingly warned that prolonged screen time can contribute to emotional and behavioural problems among children and adolescents, sparking a wider debate about the impact of social media and smartphones.
Globally, the highest reported levels of near-constant internet use were in Japan (56 per cent) and South Korea (49 per cent). At the other end of the scale, Nigeria (13 per cent) and Greece (14 per cent) had the lowest rates.
In Europe, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Sweden, and Italy ranked among the top countries where people spend the most time online. More than 90 per cent of households in these nations have broadband internet access, according to EU and UK data.
However, the study also revealed contrasting trends. In Hungary, 12 per cent of respondents reported not using the internet at all – the highest rate among European nations surveyed.
Yet this figure still pales in comparison to countries like Kenya (33 per cent) and India (36 per cent), where significant segments of the population remain offline.
The findings also highlighted a generational divide. In every country studied, younger adults were significantly more likely to use the internet and social media frequently – with many reporting they are online almost all the time.
European policymakers have been paying close attention to these trends. In a speech at the European Parliament on 13 September, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen compared the risks of social media for young people to alcohol and drugs. “Just as in my days we as a society taught our children that they could not smoke, drink, and watch adult content until a certain age, I believe it is time we consider doing the same for social media,” she said.
Her remarks reflect growing momentum across Europe for stricter digital policies. Several governments have proposed regulations to hold major tech platforms more accountable and to foster a safer online environment.
In addition, schools in many countries have begun restricting or banning smartphones during classes, echoing a broader global trend. According to a UNESCO report, dozens of school systems worldwide had imposed such bans by the end of 2024.
The debate around constant internet use now sits at the intersection of public health, digital rights, and education. While connectivity has become essential for modern life, experts warn that the unchecked rise of screen dependency may carry long-term consequences for mental well-being and societal cohesion.
As Europe grapples with this digital dilemma, the call for balance – between harnessing the benefits of connectivity and protecting citizens from its risks – grows ever louder.