The Right to Mental Integrity in the Metaverse. How Does the Metaverse Impact the Right to Mental Integrity?

This article explores how the development of Metaverse and virtual realities can endanger the right to mental integrity. The right to mental integrity is enshrined in Article 3(1) of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU. This article first examines the right to mental integrity through case law. The case law on this right is scarce but emphasizes the protection of and from vulnerability. This article then continues by discussing the right to mental integrity through doctrinal analysis. Though there is not a single clear framework the criteria of concealment, harm and self-esteem are found to be prevalent. This article then continues by examining how the Metaverse can impact mental integrity. Three different types of relations are discovered the first is the relation of the user and their avatar. The second relationship is between the user and the virtual environment. The third relationship is the interaction with other avatars. These three different relationships can have various impacts on mental integrity.