Key facts
- Governments worldwide are implementing or considering measures to restrict children's social media access.
- Concerns over mental health and safety are driving these restrictions.
- Australia has implemented a ban for social media use for individuals under 16.
- Social media companies have questioned early data on the effectiveness of Australia's ban.
- France's Constitutional Council struck down a bill banning social media for under-15s.
- The French court cited infringements on freedom of expression and privacy.
- President Macron has requested a reworked draft of the French bill.
- Other nations are exploring age verification and parental consent requirements.
- Social media firms cited evolving age-assurance technology and data challenges.
- The Australian government is considering tougher penalties and investigative powers for regulators.
Governments worldwide are actively pursuing restrictions on children's access to social media platforms, driven by escalating concerns about mental health and online safety. Australia has taken a leading role by implementing a ban on social media use for individuals under the age of 16. However, social media companies have urged Australian lawmakers to exercise caution regarding early data that suggests most minors continue to access these platforms despite the ban. Executives highlighted the challenges in age assurance technology and data collection, as the Australian government contemplates enhancing penalties and granting regulators stronger investigative powers.