The Australian decisive policy to ban social media access for individuals under sixteen is sending ripples around the globe. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and guardians are observing with great interest to see if this strategy will set a precedent for the rest of the world.
Across Europe Trend
In Europe, a growing number of nations are considering similar restrictions.
- Denmark plans a ban on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that smartphones and platforms are "robbing our kids' childhood". Legislation could be passed in the coming year.
- Norway is planning to implement a age restriction of 15, highlighting the need to shield the young from the "influence of the algorithms".
- Ireland is introducing a digital wallet to confirm the age and identity of social media participants. The media minister have stated that an Australia-style ban could be "an measures under consideration".
- In Spain, the leader has called on parliament to pass a law raising the legal age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for those under fifteen, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a comparable action, alongside an overnight "screen time restriction" for older teenagers.
- The authorities in The Dutch government has urged families to restrict their children from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has passed a non-binding motion calling for a ban for minors except if parental consent is given. Even though it warns of the "addictive" quality of these platforms, the resolution does not create enforceable legislation.
"A clear age limit is a solid first step," said a leading MEP behind the resolution.
The UK: A Watchful Stance
In the UK, the administration has remained open to a future ban, emphasizing that "nothing is off the table" but insisting any decision must be "based on strong research".
Last year, support grew behind a bill to impose restrictions on social media use by under-16s, but it was in the end weakened. Instead, the administration committed to conduct more studies the issue.
Campaign organizations have voiced concerns. One foundation founded by the relatives of a girl who took her own life after encountering dangerous online content suggests that a blanket age ban may not make platforms safer and could create a "cliff edge" of exposure when users turn 16.
"Australia's ban is a response to the inability of the Silicon Valley to build platforms and apps that are safe and suitable for minors," commented a leading peer.
America: A Decentralized Landscape
Stateside, action is primarily occurring at the local level due to federal stalemate.
- The state of Utah demands parental consent for under-18s to use social media and controls nighttime use.
- Florida has signed a measure banning children under fourteen from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- The state of Virginia has passed a rule capping under-16s to one hour of social media time per day, with additional access requiring parental permission.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have likewise introduced measures requiring guardian approval for under-16s to create social media presences.
Even with cross-party agreement and calls from certain figures to mimic Australia's path, a US-wide ban is right now seen as unlikely.
Worldwide Outlook
Beyond these regions, additional nations are also exploring options.
- Malaysia intends to ban social media for those under sixteen starting from next year.
- Brazil has lifted the minimum age for one major platform to 16.
However, world agencies strike a more cautious tone. Unicef has advised that social media bans pose dangers and "might have unintended consequences". The agency notes that the internet can be a "critical link" for isolated youth and that bans should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to invest in user protection.
While this global debate evolves, the policies of Australia and several other countries indicate that governments around the world are less and less prepared to stand by for platforms to make changes on their own.
