The Australian bold move to restrict social platforms access for those under 16 is sending ripples internationally. Politicians, campaigners, and parents are watching closely to see if this tactic will set a precedent for countries abroad.
Across Europe Movement
Across Europe, a rising chorus of states are moving toward similar bans.
- Denmark has stated a prohibition on social media for children under fifteen, with the leader arguing that phones and networks are "robbing our children's childhood". The policy could be enacted soon.
- The Norwegian government is set to enforce a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to shield young people from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is working on a online verification tool to authenticate the identity and age of social media users. The media minister have suggested that an Australia-style ban is "one of the measures in reserve".
- In Spain, the president has urged parliament to enact a proposal raising the access age for accessing social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a legislative committee has recommended a related action, potentially involving an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The administration in The Netherlands has recommended parents to block their children from social media until 15.
For the broader EU, the bloc's legislature has adopted a symbolic resolution supporting a ban for minors without parental consent is given. Even though it highlights of the "habit-forming" design of these services, the resolution does not enact enforceable legislation.
"A clear age restriction is a solid foundation," said one European lawmaker supporting the initiative.
The UK: A Cautious Eye
For the United Kingdom, the leadership has kept open a potential ban, arguing that "no measure is discarded" but maintaining any policy must be "supported by conclusive evidence".
Earlier, momentum grew behind a proposal to impose restrictions on social media use by teenagers, but it was eventually watered down. Nonetheless, the administration pledged to investigate the issue.
Campaign organizations have voiced concerns. One foundation founded by the relatives of a teenager who died after encountering harmful platform posts contends that a strict age ban might not protect children and could create a "cliff edge" of harm when teens become eligible.
"This ban is a answer to the inability of the social media companies to design tools that are appropriate and age appropriate for minors," commented a leading child protection advocate.
America: A Decentralized Picture
Across America, regulation is largely occurring at the regional level due to federal stalemate.
- Utah mandates parental consent for under-18s to use social media and controls nighttime use.
- Florida has enacted a law prohibiting children under fourteen from joining social media, though it faces constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has passed a regulation capping under-16s to a single hour of social media access per day, with extra time needing a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise passed laws mandating guardian approval for teenagers to set up social media presences.
Despite widespread concern and suggestions from some individuals to copy the Australian example, a federal ban is presently seen as unlikely.
Worldwide Views
Outside of these regions, additional nations are also considering moves.
- Malaysia intends to restrict social media for those under sixteen starting from next year.
- Brazil has lifted the minimum age for the platform Instagram to 16.
But, world organizations take a more measured tone. Unicef has advised that age-based restrictions pose dangers and "could prove counterproductive". The body notes that social networks can be a "vital connection" for marginalized children and that government action should not be a "substitute" for tech companies to prioritize safety.
While this international conversation continues, the policies of Australia and others demonstrate that policymakers globally are no longer prepared to stand by for the industry to make changes on their own.
