Australia's decisive action to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Officials, campaigners, and guardians are monitoring intently to see if this approach will set a precedent for the rest of the world.
European Momentum
Throughout Europe, a rising group of states are moving toward similar restrictions.
- The Danish government has announced a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the PM stating that smartphones and networks are "taking away our kids' innocence". A law may be passed soon.
- Norway is preparing to implement a minimum age limit of 15, citing the need to shield children from the "manipulative force of the recommendation systems".
- The Irish government is developing a digital ID system to verify the age and identity of social media users. The media minister have suggested that an Australia-style ban remains "one of the tools on the table".
- In Spain, the prime minister has urged the legislature to approve a proposal increasing the legal 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 similar action, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Dutch government has advised families to prevent their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
For the broader EU, the bloc's legislature has adopted a symbolic resolution supporting a ban for minors without parental consent is given. Although it highlights of the "compulsive" nature of these apps, the step does not enact enforceable legislation.
"An effective age restriction is a good first step," commented the parliamentarian supporting the initiative.
Britain: A Watchful Eye
Across Britain, the administration has not ruled out a possible ban, arguing that "nothing is discarded" but insisting any decision must be "based on conclusive evidence".
Last year, support grew behind a bill to enact limits on social media use by teenagers, but it was eventually weakened. However, the government pledged to further research the issue.
Charities have expressed warnings. A prominent charity set up by the relatives of a girl who died after encountering disturbing online content argues that a blanket age ban might not make platforms safer and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of harm when teens reach the legal age.
"Australia's ban is a answer to the inability of the social media companies to design platforms and apps that are secure and suitable for children," commented a leading peer.
The United States: A Fragmented Picture
In the United States, action is primarily happening at the regional level due to national stalemate.
- The state of Utah mandates adult approval for under-18s to use social media and restricts nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has signed a bill banning those below 14 from accessing social media, though it faces legal challenges.
- The state of Virginia has approved a regulation capping teenagers to a single hour of social media access per day, with any further time dependent on adult consent.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have also passed bills requiring adult authorization for under-16s to create social media profiles.
Despite cross-party agreement and suggestions from various figures to mimic Australia's lead, a US-wide ban is right now seen as a distant prospect.
Worldwide Perspectives
Beyond Europe and the US, further countries are also taking action.
- Malaysia plans to restrict social media for those under sixteen effective next year.
- Brazil has raised the minimum age for Instagram to 16.
Yet, global bodies take a more nuanced position. A major UN agency has advised that social media bans pose dangers and "could have unintended consequences". The body notes that the internet can be a "vital connection" for isolated young people and that government action should not be a "replacement" for platform operators to prioritize user protection.
As this worldwide conversation evolves, the steps of Australia and its followers indicate that policymakers around the world are increasingly content to stand by for the industry to make changes on their own.
