The nation's bold move to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate worldwide. Officials, safety advocates, and parents are watching with great interest to see if this strategy will set a precedent for other nations.
European Momentum
In Europe, a growing group of nations are moving toward comparable measures.
- Denmark plans a ban on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister arguing that mobile devices and platforms are "taking away our kids' youth". Legislation could be formalized in the coming year.
- The Norwegian government is preparing to implement a age restriction of 15, citing the need to shield children from the "manipulative force of the AI".
- Ireland is developing a digital ID system to confirm the age and identity of social media users. The media minister have stated that an similar ban is "a potential measures on the table".
- In Spain, the prime minister has asked parliament to approve a law increasing the minimum age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has floated the idea of a ban for those under fifteen, and a legislative committee has endorsed a similar step, potentially involving an overnight "screen time restriction" for adolescents.
- The government in The Dutch government has urged families to block their youngsters from social media until 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding resolution demanding a ban for under-16s without parental consent is given. Although it highlights of the "compulsive" nature of these platforms, the step does not enact enforceable legislation.
"A strong age restriction is a useful first step," said one European lawmaker behind the initiative.
Britain: An Evidence-Based Approach
In the UK, the leadership has kept open a possible ban, stating that "no measure is being dismissed" but maintaining any policy must be "supported by robust evidence".
Previously, momentum built behind a bill to enact controls on social media use by teenagers, but it was eventually watered down. However, the government committed to investigate the matter.
Charities have voiced concerns. One foundation established by the family of a teenager who died after encountering disturbing platform posts suggests that a strict age ban might not protect children and could create a "cliff edge" of risk when teens become eligible.
"Australia's ban is a response to the failure of the social media companies to design tools that are secure and suitable for young users," said a prominent child protection advocate.
America: A Fragmented Picture
Stateside, action is mostly occurring at the regional level amid federal gridlock.
- Utah demands adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and limits nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has passed a bill prohibiting under-14s from accessing social media, though it faces legal challenges.
- Virginia has approved a rule capping teenagers to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with extra time needing parental permission.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise enacted laws requiring parental consent for minors to open social media profiles.
Despite widespread concern and calls from some individuals to copy this example, a federal ban is presently seen as improbable.
Global Views
Beyond the West, other countries are likewise taking action.
- The Malaysian government plans to restrict social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- Brazil has lifted the required age for Instagram to 16.
However, global organizations adopt a more nuanced stance. Unicef has warned that social media bans carry risks and "could backfire". The organization points out that online platforms can be a "vital connection" for marginalized children and that government action should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to improve safety.
As this international debate continues, the policies of Australia and others indicate that governments internationally are less and less prepared to stand by for tech companies to make changes on their own.
