Key facts
- Australia has implemented a ban on social media for children under 16.
- New Zealand, the UK, Canada, and Indonesia are considering similar bans.
- The European Union is developing policies for social media age restrictions.
- France is considering a ban for children under 15 and a curfew for older teens.
- A bill to ban under-13s from social media was introduced in the US Congress.
Australia's recent implementation of a social media ban for individuals under 16 is influencing other countries to consider similar restrictions. The ban, which affects platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for young Australians, is being closely watched globally.
New Zealand has announced plans to introduce comparable legislation, following a parliamentary committee's examination of social media harms. The European Parliament has also called for a ban on social media for those under 16, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen studying Australia's approach to address concerns about algorithms preying on children's vulnerabilities.
Several other nations are also taking steps to protect young users online. Malaysia will implement a ban for under-16s starting in 2026 and requires platforms to obtain licenses and use age verification. France is considering a ban for under-15s and a nighttime curfew for older teens, alongside other recommendations like banning smartphones in schools. Spain is increasing its minimum age for social media accounts from 14 to 16, with parental consent as an exception. Norway plans to restrict social media access for under-15s, emphasizing children's fundamental rights. Denmark has announced a ban for under-15s, though parents can override it for 13- and 14-year-olds, with implementation details still pending.
In the United States, a lawsuit has been filed against Meta, alleging that its platforms like Instagram contributed to a young woman's mental health struggles through addictive algorithms. This case fuels calls for national action similar to Australia's ban. While a bill for a national ban on under-13s was introduced in Congress, it has not progressed. An alternative bill passed by the House of Representatives aims to limit features encouraging compulsive usage, but its Senate prospects are uncertain, with some advocates deeming it too weak.