Governments around the world are stepping up efforts to protect children from potential social media harms. Several countries plan to limit or ban access to popular platforms for minors. This wave of regulation aims to make online spaces safer for young users.
In Europe, the European Union will soon propose new rules to restrict social media use by children under 13. Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President, shared expert advice that children in this age group should only use social media for short periods and under supervision. She said a formal proposal will come after the summer, with an announcement expected in her September state of the union address.
This plan targets all 27 EU member states, aiming for a tiered approach to protect young children. Von der Leyen said age-appropriate restrictions are crucial and promised clear rules soon.
The UK is moving fast too. It plans to ban social media accounts for anyone under 16 by spring 2024. Liz Kendall, the UK’s Technology Secretary, explained the ban will include strict age checks. The UK will also block risky features like live-streaming, chatting with strangers, and AI chatbots that simulate close relationships with users under 18. This shows a broad concern about how social media and AI tools affect young people.
Australia already bans kids under 16 from using TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Snapchat, X, and other platforms. Authorities plan to increase punishments for companies that break this law. The maximum fine will jump from the current level to A$99 million (US$68.6 million). This move signals strong government will to enforce these rules.
France and Denmark are also preparing similar social media bans for young users. Other countries like China, India, and the United States consider restrictions too, especially on apps like TikTok and Meta’s Instagram and Facebook.
These efforts come amid growing worries about the impact of social media on children’s mental health and safety. For example, a 13-year-old girl in Tseung Kwan O recently stole HK$380,000, highlighting concerns about online influences and risks faced by youth. In Hong Kong, discussions about social media harms are ongoing.
The combined global push reflects a shift toward tougher tech policies focused on protecting minors. Governments want clear age limits and strong enforcement. They also want to address emerging risks from AI-driven features like chatbots that can mimic human relationships.
Overall, these moves show that social media access for children is no longer seen as just a personal choice. It is a public safety issue requiring rules to guide companies and protect young users worldwide.
Based on
- Albanese to compare pivotal moment in AI to renewable energy transition as he outlines approach — theguardian.com
- How the federal government’s proposed digital regulator would work — ctvnews.ca
- EU to ban children from social media – how it will work | The Independent — independent.co.uk
- Letters | As global bans tighten, Hong Kong must act against social media harm | South China Morning Post — scmp.com
