Australia's controversial move to prohibit social networking access for those under 16 is sparking debate internationally. Politicians, campaigners, and parents are monitoring intently to see if this approach will inspire imitation for countries abroad.
Across Europe Trend
Across Europe, a growing number of nations are considering parallel bans.
- Denmark plans a ban on social media for under-15s, with the leader arguing that smartphones and networks are "taking away our youngsters' innocence". Legislation could be passed next year.
- The Norwegian government is set to implement a access barrier of 15, pointing to the need to shield the young from the "manipulative force of the AI".
- Ireland is developing a digital wallet to confirm the age and identity of social media users. The media minister have stated that an similar ban could be "a potential tools on the table".
- In The Spanish government, the prime minister has called on lawmakers to enact a proposal increasing the access age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the president has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a legislative committee has recommended a related action, potentially involving an overnight "screen time restriction" for older teenagers.
- The government in The Netherlands has recommended guardians to prevent their youngsters from social media before 15.
Across the European Union, the bloc's legislature has passed a non-binding resolution demanding a ban for teenagers under 16 except if a parent decides otherwise is provided. Even though it highlights of the "compulsive" design of these apps, the resolution does not enact binding law.
"An effective age restriction is a solid starting point," said a leading MEP supporting the initiative.
Britain: A Watchful Eye
Across Britain, the government has kept open a potential ban, arguing that "no option is discarded" but maintaining any policy must be "supported by conclusive research".
Previously, interest built behind a proposal to enact restrictions on social media use by teenagers, but it was in the end weakened. However, the administration pledged to investigate the topic.
Campaign organizations have voiced concerns. One foundation set up by the family of a girl who was lost after encountering disturbing online content argues that a strict age ban might not make platforms safer and could lead to a "dangerous transition" of exposure when young people reach the legal age.
"This ban is a reaction to the inability of the tech sector to create platforms and apps that are appropriate and suitable for children," commented a influential online safety campaigner.
The United States: A Fragmented Approach
Across America, legislation is primarily unfolding at the state level against a backdrop of federal gridlock.
- Utah demands adult approval for under-18s to use social media and limits late-night use.
- Florida has signed a measure barring those below 14 from creating accounts on social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
- Virginia has passed a law restricting teenagers to a single hour of social media time per day, with extra use dependent on a guardian's okay.
- The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise passed bills demanding guardian approval for minors to set up social media accounts.
Even with bipartisan support and calls from various figures to follow this example, a nationwide ban is currently seen as a distant prospect.
Worldwide Outlook
Outside of Europe and the US, additional countries are also taking action.
- Malaysia aims to ban social media for under-16s effective next year.
- Brazil has lifted the minimum age for the platform Instagram to 16.
However, international bodies adopt a more cautious stance. The UN children's agency has cautioned that age-based restrictions carry risks and "could have unintended consequences". The body points out that social networks can be a "vital connection" for isolated young people and that bans should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to prioritize user protection.
As this global debate evolves, the steps of Australia and several other countries indicate that policymakers globally are no longer content to wait for tech companies to make changes on their own.
