Australia's controversial move to restrict social platforms access for young people below 16 is sending ripples worldwide. Officials, child protection groups, and guardians are watching intently to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for countries abroad.
Across Europe Momentum
Across Europe, a growing number of nations are moving toward similar bans.
- Denmark has stated a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that phones and platforms are "stealing our kids' innocence". A law may be enacted next year.
- The Norwegian government is preparing to enforce a minimum age limit of 15, highlighting the need to safeguard children from the "manipulative force of the recommendation systems".
- The Irish government is introducing a online verification tool to confirm the user details of social media users. The media minister have stated that an Australia-style ban is "an options in reserve".
- In Spain, the president has called on parliament to enact a proposal increasing the access age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has recommended a related action, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has recommended guardians to block their kids from social media up to the age of 15.
For the broader EU, the European parliament has passed a non-binding motion demanding a ban for under-16s except if a parent decides otherwise is granted. Although it cautions of the "habit-forming" design of these apps, the resolution does not establish binding law.
"A clear age restriction is a solid first step," said one European lawmaker supporting the resolution.
The UK: An Evidence-Based Stance
In the UK, the government has remained open to a future ban, arguing that "nothing is being dismissed" but stressing any decision must be "based on strong data".
Earlier, momentum gathered behind a legislative effort to impose controls on social media use by minors, but it was in the end watered down. Instead, the government vowed to conduct more studies the topic.
Advocacy groups have voiced concerns. One foundation set up by the relatives of a girl who took her own life after encountering harmful online content argues that a simple age ban could fail to protect children and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of harm when teens turn 16.
"This ban is a response to the inability of the tech sector to build tools that are appropriate and fit for minors," said a prominent child protection advocate.
The US: A Fragmented Approach
Across America, legislation is mostly happening at the local level against a backdrop of national stalemate.
- The state of Utah requires parental consent for those under 18 to use social media and limits nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has signed a measure prohibiting children under fourteen from joining social media, though it is entangled in legal challenges.
- Virginia has enacted a rule limiting minors to one hour of social media use per day, with extra access requiring adult consent.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly introduced laws requiring guardian approval for minors to set up social media profiles.
Despite widespread concern and proposals from some politicians to mimic Australia's example, a federal ban is presently seen as unlikely.
Global Views
Apart from the West, other countries are likewise taking action.
- The Malaysian government plans to ban social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has lifted the required age for the platform Instagram to 16.
However, world agencies adopt a more nuanced stance. Unicef has warned that blanket prohibitions pose dangers and "might backfire". The agency highlights that social networks can be a "lifeline" for vulnerable young people and that regulation should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to improve user protection.
As this worldwide debate unfolds, the policies of this nation and several other countries show that policymakers internationally are no longer prepared to stand by for tech companies to make changes on their own.
