Australia's decisive move to restrict social media access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Politicians, campaigners, and parents are watching closely to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for the rest of the world.
European Movement
Throughout Europe, a rising number of countries are moving toward parallel restrictions.
- The Danish government has stated a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the PM arguing that smartphones and apps are "stealing our children's innocence". Legislation is expected to be enacted next year.
- The Norwegian government is set to introduce a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to shield the young from the "influence of the algorithms".
- The Irish government is introducing a digital wallet to verify the age and identity of social media account holders. Officials have suggested that an Australia-style ban remains "one of the measures in reserve".
- In Spain, the president has urged the legislature to approve a law increasing the access age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the president has threatened a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has recommended a related step, potentially involving an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
- The government in The Dutch government has recommended families to restrict their kids from social media before 15.
For the broader EU, the European parliament has passed a advisory motion calling for a ban for under-16s without parental consent is provided. Even though it highlights of the "habit-forming" nature of these services, the move does not establish binding law.
"A clear age restriction is a solid starting point," commented one MEP supporting the initiative.
The UK: A Watchful Eye
For the United Kingdom, the leadership has not ruled out a possible ban, emphasizing that "no option is being dismissed" but insisting any action must be "grounded in conclusive data".
Last year, momentum grew behind a bill to enact controls on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately modified. However, the administration committed to further research the matter.
Advocacy groups have voiced apprehensions. A prominent charity established by the loved ones of a teenager who died after encountering dangerous social media material suggests that a simple age ban could fail to protect children and could create a "cliff edge" of harm when teens become eligible.
"This ban is a reaction to the failure of the Silicon Valley to build tools that are safe and fit for children," commented a prominent child protection advocate.
The US: A State-by-State Picture
Stateside, legislation is largely happening at the regional level due to national gridlock.
- The state of Utah mandates adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and restricts overnight use.
- Florida has signed a bill banning children under fourteen from creating accounts on social media, though it faces court battles.
- Virginia has approved a rule limiting minors to 60 minutes of social media use per day, with any further time dependent on a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have also passed laws mandating guardian approval for under-16s to open social media presences.
Even with bipartisan support and proposals from some figures to copy this path, a federal ban is presently seen as unlikely.
International Views
Beyond the West, additional states are likewise taking action.
- Malaysia plans to prohibit social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has increased the minimum age for Instagram to 16.
But, international organizations adopt a more nuanced stance. Unicef has cautioned that age-based restrictions have downsides and "might have unintended consequences". The body points out that online platforms can be a "critical link" for marginalized youth and that government action should not be a "substitute" for tech companies to prioritize child safeguards.
While this international discussion unfolds, the actions of Australia and its followers indicate that governments around the world are less and less prepared to stand by for the industry to act voluntarily.
