Australia's decisive move to prohibit social media access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Politicians, child protection groups, and parents are observing intently to see if this tactic will set a precedent for other nations.
The European Momentum
Throughout Europe, a rising group of nations are exploring comparable restrictions.
- Denmark plans a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the leader arguing that phones and platforms are "stealing our kids' youth". A law may be passed in the coming year.
- Norway is preparing to introduce a age restriction of 15, highlighting the need to protect young people from the "influence of the algorithms".
- The Irish government is developing a digital wallet to authenticate the user details of social media account holders. Officials have stated that an Australia-style ban could be "an measures on the table".
- In Spain, the leader has asked lawmakers to enact a bill increasing the legal age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the leader has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a legislative committee has endorsed a comparable move, including an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has advised parents to prevent their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the bloc's legislature has approved a non-binding resolution demanding a ban for minors without a parent decides otherwise is given. Even though it cautions of the "compulsive" nature of these platforms, the resolution does not create enforceable legislation.
"A strong age restriction is a solid first step," commented a leading parliamentarian behind the resolution.
The UK: A Cautious Stance
For the United Kingdom, the leadership has not ruled out a future ban, emphasizing that "nothing is off the table" but insisting any policy must be "supported by robust evidence".
Last year, interest gathered behind a proposal to introduce limits on social media use by under-16s, but it was in the end watered down. Instead, the government committed to investigate the matter.
Advocacy groups have voiced warnings. An organization set up by the loved ones of a young person who was lost after viewing disturbing social media material suggests that a strict age ban may not protect children and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of harm when teens reach the legal age.
"This ban is a response to the failure of the social media companies to build tools that are appropriate and suitable for young users," stated a leading peer.
The United States: A Fragmented Picture
In the United States, action is primarily happening at the regional level amid country-wide inaction.
- Utah demands adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and controls late-night use.
- Florida has enacted a bill banning children under fourteen from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- Virginia has approved a rule restricting under-16s to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with additional access dependent on parental permission.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise enacted measures requiring parental consent for under-16s to create social media accounts.
Despite widespread concern and suggestions from some politicians to mimic Australia's path, a federal ban is currently seen as unlikely.
Global Views
Outside of Europe and the US, further nations are likewise exploring options.
- The Malaysian government aims to restrict social media for teenagers starting from next year.
- Brazil has lifted the access age for one major platform to 16.
But, world bodies take a more measured position. Unicef has advised that social media bans have downsides and "may even prove counterproductive". The agency highlights that the internet can be a "lifeline" for isolated youth and that government action should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to invest in user protection.
While this worldwide debate continues, the policies of this nation and its followers indicate that policymakers around the world are increasingly content to delay for platforms to self-regulate.
