The Commission is launching a new initiative to propose its vision and strategic actions on Web 4.0 and virtual worlds for the European Union. It is crucial that this technological transition reflects EU values and principles and fundamental rights from the onset. The strategy aims to ensure that European citizens can safely and confident use virtual worlds and European businesses can develop world-leading applications. Web 4.0 should be driven by open technologies and standards that ensure interoperability between platforms and networks, and freedom of choice for users.