The Australian bold action to restrict social networking access for individuals under sixteen is sending ripples around the globe. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and guardians are observing closely to see if this strategy will set a precedent for countries abroad.
European Momentum
In Europe, a growing number of countries are considering comparable restrictions.
- The Danish government has stated a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the leader stating that mobile devices and networks are "taking away our kids' innocence". Legislation could be passed next year.
- Norway is preparing to implement a minimum age limit of 15, highlighting the need to shield young people from the "power of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is developing a online verification tool to verify the user details of social media users. Authorities have indicated that an Australian-model ban remains "a potential options in reserve".
- In Spain, the leader has asked parliament to enact a law increasing the legal age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the president has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a legislative committee has recommended a similar step, including an overnight "internet blackout" for adolescents.
- The government in The Dutch government has advised guardians to prevent their kids from social media until 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding motion calling for a ban for under-16s unless guardian approval is provided. While it cautions of the "habit-forming" quality of these apps, the move does not establish mandatory rules.
"A strong age limit is a useful foundation," said the European lawmaker behind the resolution.
The United Kingdom: An Evidence-Based Stance
For the United Kingdom, the government has not ruled out a future ban, arguing that "no measure is being dismissed" but stressing any policy must be "based on robust research".
Previously, interest built behind a bill to impose restrictions on social media use by minors, but it was in the end watered down. However, the government pledged to conduct more studies the matter.
Charities have voiced warnings. An organization founded by the relatives of a girl who took her own life after encountering harmful social media material contends that a blanket age ban may not make platforms safer and could create a "dangerous transition" of risk when users reach the legal age.
"The Australian ban is a reaction to the refusal of the tech sector to create products and services that are secure and suitable for young users," said a leading online safety campaigner.
America: A Decentralized Approach
In the United States, legislation is primarily unfolding at the local level amid national inaction.
- Utah mandates adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and controls overnight use.
- Florida has passed a law prohibiting children under fourteen from joining social media, though it is entangled in constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has passed a regulation limiting under-16s to one hour of social media time per day, with additional access requiring parental permission.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also enacted bills requiring guardian approval for minors to open social media presences.
Despite widespread concern and suggestions from certain politicians to follow this path, a federal ban is currently seen as improbable.
Global Perspectives
Beyond the West, other countries are similarly taking action.
- Malaysia aims to ban social media for teenagers starting from next year.
- Brazil has increased the access age for Instagram to 16.
However, international bodies take a more nuanced position. The UN children's agency has warned that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "might have unintended consequences". The organization points out that social networks can be a "vital connection" for isolated youth and that government action should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to invest in safety.
While this worldwide discussion continues, the actions of the Australian government and others show that policymakers globally are no longer prepared to wait for the industry to act voluntarily.
