The Australian controversial move to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is sending ripples worldwide. Lawmakers, campaigners, and parents are observing intently to see if this strategy will set a precedent for the rest of the world.
Across Europe Trend
In Europe, a rising number of countries are considering similar bans.
- The Danish government has stated a ban on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that mobile devices and apps are "robbing our children's innocence". A law could be passed next year.
- Norway is preparing to implement a access barrier of 15, citing the need to shield young people from the "manipulative force of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is introducing a online verification tool to verify the age and identity of social media account holders. Authorities have stated that an similar ban could be "an tools on the table".
- In Spain, the president has asked parliament to approve a bill raising the access age for using social media to 16.
- In The French government, the head of state has floated the idea of a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a related move, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The government in the Netherlands has urged guardians to block their children from social media before 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding motion calling for a ban for teenagers under 16 unless a parent decides otherwise is granted. While it warns of the "compulsive" nature of these services, the move does not enact enforceable legislation.
"A clear age restriction is a good first step," commented the European lawmaker driving the resolution.
Britain: A Watchful Eye
Across Britain, the government has kept open a future ban, stating that "nothing is discarded" but insisting any decision must be "grounded in strong data".
Earlier, support grew behind a bill to impose restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was eventually watered down. Instead, the government committed to further research the matter.
Charities have voiced concerns. One foundation set up by the family of a teenager who died after viewing harmful platform posts suggests that a blanket age ban may not make platforms safer and could lead to a "dangerous transition" of exposure when users turn 16.
"Australia's ban is a answer to the refusal of the social media companies to build platforms and apps that are secure and age appropriate for children," commented a prominent online safety campaigner.
The US: A Decentralized Approach
Across America, legislation is largely happening at the local government level against a backdrop of federal gridlock.
- Utah requires guardian permission for those under 18 to use social media and controls overnight use.
- The state of Florida has passed a law banning under-14s from creating accounts on social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
- The state of Virginia has passed a law limiting minors to a single hour of social media time per day, with extra time needing parental permission.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have likewise enacted bills mandating parental consent for minors to set up social media accounts.
Despite cross-party agreement and calls from various figures to mimic Australia's path, a nationwide ban is currently seen as improbable.
Worldwide Outlook
Outside of these regions, other countries are also exploring options.
- Malaysia plans to restrict social media for under-16s effective next year.
- Brazil has lifted the access age for Instagram to 16.
But, global organizations take a more measured tone. Unicef has cautioned that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "might prove counterproductive". The agency highlights that online platforms can be a "lifeline" for isolated young people and that government action should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to invest in safety.
As this global discussion evolves, the actions of Australia and others show that governments around the world are less and less willing to delay for the industry to make changes on their own.
