The Australian controversial policy to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate worldwide. Lawmakers, campaigners, and parents are observing intently to see if this tactic will set a precedent for other nations.
Across Europe Trend
Throughout Europe, a growing group of countries are exploring similar restrictions.
- The Danish government has stated a restriction on social media for children under fifteen, with the PM arguing that phones and platforms are "robbing our kids' youth". The policy is expected to be passed soon.
- Norway is preparing to implement a access barrier of 15, pointing to the need to protect the young from the "influence of the algorithms".
- Ireland is introducing a online verification tool to confirm the age and identity of social media users. Authorities have indicated that an Australia-style ban remains "one of the measures under consideration".
- In Spain, the president has called on the legislature to enact a law lifting the access age for accessing social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has threatened a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has endorsed a similar move, potentially involving an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The authorities in The Dutch government has recommended parents to restrict their kids from social media before 15.
At the EU level, the European parliament has approved a non-binding resolution calling for a ban for teenagers under 16 except if guardian approval is given. While it highlights of the "addictive" quality of these platforms, the move does not create binding law.
"A strong age restriction is a good starting point," commented one MEP driving the measure.
The UK: A Watchful Stance
In the UK, the administration has not ruled out a possible ban, arguing that "no measure is being dismissed" but stressing any decision must be "grounded in strong data".
Earlier, momentum grew behind a bill to introduce restrictions on social media use by teenagers, but it was in the end watered down. Nonetheless, the government vowed to further research the matter.
Campaign organizations have expressed concerns. One foundation founded by the family of a teenager who was lost after viewing dangerous social media material contends that a simple age ban could fail to protect children and could create a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when young people reach the legal age.
"The Australian ban is a reaction to the inability of the tech sector to design tools that are secure and age appropriate for minors," stated a leading child protection advocate.
The US: A Fragmented Approach
Across America, legislation is mostly happening at the regional level due to federal gridlock.
- Utah demands parental consent for under-18s to use social media and limits overnight use.
- The state of Florida has passed a bill prohibiting under-14s from accessing social media, though it faces constitutional disputes.
- The state of Virginia has passed a rule capping minors to a single hour of social media access per day, with any further use requiring parental permission.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly introduced bills demanding guardian approval for minors to set up social media profiles.
Even with cross-party agreement and suggestions from certain politicians to mimic Australia's lead, a federal ban is right now seen as a distant prospect.
International Outlook
Outside of the West, further nations are also considering moves.
- Malaysia intends to restrict social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has raised the access age for the platform Instagram to 16.
Yet, global bodies adopt a more measured position. A major UN agency has warned that blanket prohibitions pose dangers and "could have unintended consequences". The organization highlights that the internet can be a "vital connection" for vulnerable young people and that bans should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to prioritize child safeguards.
As this worldwide discussion evolves, the policies of Australia and others show that governments around the world are less and less willing to stand by for tech companies to act voluntarily.
