The nation's controversial action to prohibit social media access for individuals under sixteen is creating waves around the globe. Officials, campaigners, and families are observing intently to see if this approach will set a precedent for other nations.
European Movement
Throughout Europe, a growing chorus of states are exploring parallel measures.
- The Danish government has stated a ban on social media for children under fifteen, with the prime minister arguing that mobile devices and platforms are "robbing our children's innocence". The policy is expected to be enacted in the coming year.
- The Norwegian government is set to introduce a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to safeguard the young from the "influence of the algorithms".
- The Irish government is introducing a digital wallet to confirm the age and identity of social media participants. Officials have indicated that an similar ban remains "an options in reserve".
- In Spain, the president has urged lawmakers to approve a law raising the access age for accessing social media to 16.
- In France, the leader has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has suggested a similar action, alongside an overnight "screen time restriction" for older teenagers.
- The authorities in The Dutch government has recommended guardians to block their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding resolution supporting a ban for minors unless guardian approval is given. Even though it cautions of the "addictive" design of these apps, the move does not create enforceable legislation.
"A strong age restriction is a solid first step," commented the parliamentarian behind the resolution.
The UK: An Evidence-Based Approach
Across Britain, the government has kept open a possible ban, arguing that "no measure is being dismissed" but maintaining any policy must be "based on strong research".
Last year, momentum built behind a bill to enact restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately modified. However, the government pledged to investigate the topic.
Campaign organizations have voiced warnings. An organization established by the relatives of a girl who was lost after being exposed to harmful online content argues that a simple age ban may not make platforms safer and could result in a "cliff edge" of harm when users turn 16.
"Australia's ban is a reaction to the refusal of the social media companies to build platforms and apps that are safe and fit for children," stated a prominent online safety campaigner.
The United States: A Decentralized Landscape
Stateside, legislation is mostly unfolding at the state level due to national gridlock.
- The state of Utah demands adult approval for minors to use social media and limits late-night use.
- The state of Florida has enacted a bill banning under-14s from creating accounts on social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- Virginia has passed a rule restricting teenagers to one hour of social media time per day, with any further time dependent on adult consent.
- Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have also passed laws demanding adult authorization for minors to set up social media profiles.
Despite bipartisan support and proposals from certain individuals to follow the Australian example, a US-wide ban is currently seen as unlikely.
Worldwide Outlook
Outside of Europe and the US, further nations are likewise considering moves.
- The Malaysian government aims to ban social media for those under sixteen starting from next year.
- Brazil has increased the minimum age for Instagram to 16.
But, international organizations adopt a more measured position. The UN children's agency has cautioned that social media bans have downsides and "may even have unintended consequences". The body notes that the internet can be a "vital connection" for isolated children and that government action should not be a "substitute" for platform operators to improve user protection.
While this global discussion evolves, the policies of this nation and others indicate that states internationally are less and less content to wait for tech companies to act voluntarily.
