The Australian controversial action to ban social media access for individuals under sixteen is sending ripples worldwide. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and guardians are monitoring closely to see if this tactic will become a template for countries abroad.
European Momentum
In Europe, a growing chorus of countries are considering similar measures.
- Denmark plans a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister declaring that smartphones and apps are "robbing our children's youth". A law could be passed in the coming year.
- The Norwegian government is planning to implement a age restriction of 15, citing the need to shield the young from the "influence of the algorithms".
- The Irish government is developing a online verification tool to confirm the age and identity of social media participants. Officials have suggested that an Australia-style ban is "a potential measures under consideration".
- In Spain, the leader has called on lawmakers to approve a proposal lifting the minimum age for accessing social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has floated the idea of a ban for under-15s, and a legislative committee has suggested a related step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The authorities in the Netherlands has advised guardians to restrict their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
Across the European Union, the bloc's legislature has approved a non-binding resolution calling for a ban for minors without guardian approval is granted. While it cautions of the "habit-forming" nature of these services, the resolution does not establish mandatory rules.
"A clear age limit is a useful foundation," said the parliamentarian supporting the initiative.
The United Kingdom: A Watchful Stance
In the UK, the government has kept open a potential ban, emphasizing that "nothing is off the table" but maintaining any decision must be "grounded in conclusive evidence".
Previously, momentum built behind a legislative effort to introduce controls on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately watered down. However, the administration committed to conduct more studies the issue.
Advocacy groups have raised apprehensions. One foundation set up by the relatives of a girl who died after encountering dangerous platform posts suggests that a simple age ban might not improve online safety and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of risk when users become eligible.
"The Australian ban is a response to the failure of the tech sector to build tools that are secure and fit for children," stated a prominent peer.
The US: A Fragmented Picture
Stateside, legislation is largely unfolding at the state level against a backdrop of country-wide inaction.
- The state of Utah demands adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and controls late-night use.
- Florida has passed a bill barring children under fourteen from creating accounts on social media, though it is entangled in legal challenges.
- Virginia has approved a rule limiting minors to one hour of social media time per day, with any further time needing a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly introduced measures mandating adult authorization for minors to open social media profiles.
Even with bipartisan support and proposals from some individuals to copy Australia's example, a federal ban is presently seen as unlikely.
Worldwide Views
Apart from these regions, additional nations are similarly exploring options.
- The Malaysian government intends to ban social media for teenagers beginning next year.
- Brazil has increased the access age for one major platform to 16.
Yet, world bodies strike a more nuanced position. Unicef has cautioned that age-based restrictions pose dangers and "might have unintended consequences". The body highlights that online platforms can be a "vital connection" for marginalized young people and that bans should not be a "substitute" for platform operators to prioritize user protection.
While this worldwide debate continues, the steps of the Australian government and others show that governments around the world are less and less willing to stand by for tech companies to self-regulate.
