Macron urges EU ban on social media for under-15s

Macron emphasized the urgency of establishing a harmonized, bloc-wide ban through new EU legislation to ensure consistent protection for all children across the Union. He noted that while several European countries are exploring curbs on social media for young people due to mental health and safety concerns, some nations prefer parental discretion. Macron is prioritizing this initiative in his final years as French president, seeking support from other EU governments.

Previously, in July, Von der Leyen had indicated that the European Union intended to limit young children's access to social media, referencing expert proposals for a tiered system. This system suggested limited, supervised access for children under 13, with gradual easing of restrictions as they age. Macron's current push advocates for a more stringent, blanket prohibition until the age of 15, ahead of Von der Leyen's upcoming State of the Union address.