The Australian bold move to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Lawmakers, child protection groups, and parents are watching intently to see if this approach will set a precedent for countries abroad.
European Movement
Across Europe, a increasing group of countries are moving toward comparable measures.
- The Danish government plans a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister arguing that phones and apps are "taking away our children's innocence". Legislation is expected to be enacted next year.
- Norway is set to enforce a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to protect young people from the "manipulative force of the AI".
- The Irish government is developing a online verification tool to confirm the user details of social media users. Authorities have suggested that an Australian-model ban could be "a potential options in reserve".
- In Spain, the president has asked lawmakers to approve a bill raising the legal 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 government panel has recommended a comparable step, potentially involving an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The administration in The Dutch government has advised guardians to prevent their children from social media up to the age of 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding motion calling for a ban for under-16s unless parental consent is granted. While it warns of the "compulsive" nature of these platforms, the move does not establish mandatory rules.
"An effective age restriction is a solid starting point," said one parliamentarian driving the initiative.
The UK: An Evidence-Based Eye
For the United Kingdom, the government has not ruled out a potential ban, emphasizing that "nothing is discarded" but maintaining any decision must be "based on conclusive evidence".
Earlier, momentum gathered behind a proposal to introduce limits on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately watered down. However, the government vowed to further research the matter.
Campaign organizations have voiced apprehensions. One foundation founded by the family of a girl who died after viewing dangerous platform posts contends that a blanket age ban may not protect children and could lead to a "dangerous transition" of risk when teens reach the legal age.
"Australia's ban is a answer to the inability of the social media companies to create products and services that are secure and age appropriate for minors," commented a influential online safety campaigner.
The US: A State-by-State Approach
Stateside, regulation is primarily happening at the regional level against a backdrop of federal inaction.
- Utah requires guardian permission for those under 18 to use social media and limits nighttime use.
- Florida has passed a measure barring those below 14 from accessing social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has enacted a regulation limiting under-16s to a single hour of social media access per day, with any further access needing a guardian's okay.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have similarly introduced bills demanding guardian approval for minors to set up social media presences.
Even with bipartisan support and proposals from various individuals to mimic Australia's path, a nationwide ban is currently seen as improbable.
International Views
Outside of Europe and the US, other countries are similarly exploring options.
- The Malaysian government intends to ban social media for under-16s starting from next year.
- Brazil has increased the access age for Instagram to 16.
But, global agencies adopt a more nuanced tone. The UN children's agency has warned that social media bans have downsides and "could have unintended consequences". The organization highlights that online platforms can be a "vital connection" for isolated children and that regulation should not be a "replacement" for platform operators to invest in safety.
As this worldwide discussion evolves, the actions of Australia and its followers show that governments internationally are increasingly prepared to stand by for platforms to make changes on their own.
