Key facts
- France's Constitutional Council blocked a bill banning social media for under-15s.
- The French court cited freedom of expression and privacy concerns.
- Social media firms urged Australian lawmakers not to over-rely on early data.
- Early Australian data suggests most minors still use platforms despite an under-16 ban.
- Companies cited evolving age-assurance technology and data challenges in Australia.
- The Australian government is considering tougher penalties for social media platforms.
- The Australian government is considering expanded investigative powers for regulators.
France's Constitutional Council has blocked a legislative proposal that aimed to prohibit social media access for individuals under the age of 15. The court's decision was based on concerns that the ban would infringe upon the fundamental right to freedom of expression and that the proposed measures did not offer adequate protections for the privacy of minors. The ruling effectively halts the implementation of this specific age-based restriction in France.
In parallel, social media companies in Australia are advising lawmakers against placing excessive reliance on preliminary data. This data suggests that a majority of minors continue to access social media platforms despite the existence of a ban for those under 16. Executives from these companies highlighted the ongoing development of age-assurance technologies and the inherent challenges associated with collecting and interpreting data in this domain. These arguments come as the Australian government contemplates the introduction of more stringent penalties for non-compliance and enhances the investigative capabilities of its regulatory bodies. The companies are advocating for a nuanced approach that considers technological advancements and data limitations when formulating policy.