The Australian decisive action to prohibit social platforms access for young people below 16 is sending ripples internationally. Officials, safety advocates, and families are watching intently to see if this approach will become a template for the rest of the world.
The European Momentum
In Europe, a increasing number of states are moving toward similar measures.
- Denmark has stated a ban on social media for children under fifteen, with the PM stating that smartphones and networks are "stealing our kids' innocence". Legislation could be enacted in the coming year.
- Norway is preparing to implement a minimum age limit of 15, pointing to the need to safeguard children from the "manipulative force of the AI".
- The Irish government is developing a digital wallet to authenticate the age and identity of social media account holders. The media minister have indicated that an Australia-style ban could be "one of the tools on the table".
- In The Spanish government, the prime minister has asked lawmakers to enact a proposal increasing the minimum age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the president has threatened a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has suggested a related step, including an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has recommended families to restrict their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has approved a advisory resolution supporting a ban for teenagers under 16 except if parental consent is provided. Although it warns of the "habit-forming" nature of these platforms, the move does not establish binding law.
"A strong age barrier is a solid foundation," stated the parliamentarian behind the measure.
Britain: A Watchful Eye
In the UK, the leadership has kept open a possible ban, arguing that "nothing is being dismissed" but maintaining any policy must be "supported by strong research".
Earlier, interest gathered behind a proposal to introduce controls on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately modified. However, the administration vowed to further research the matter.
Charities have raised warnings. A prominent charity established by the family of a young person who was lost after being exposed to disturbing online content suggests that a blanket age ban might not protect children and could result in a "dangerous transition" of harm when young people turn 16.
"Australia's ban is a response to the failure of the Silicon Valley to build platforms and apps that are appropriate and age appropriate for children," commented a prominent child protection advocate.
The United States: A Fragmented Approach
Across America, legislation is largely happening at the local government level amid country-wide inaction.
- The state of Utah mandates adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and limits overnight use.
- Florida has signed a measure prohibiting under-14s from joining social media, though it faces legal challenges.
- Virginia has enacted a rule restricting minors to one hour of social media time per day, with extra access requiring parental permission.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly introduced bills mandating guardian approval for minors to create social media presences.
Even with widespread concern and proposals from various figures to mimic Australia's path, a US-wide ban is currently seen as unlikely.
Worldwide Views
Outside of Europe and the US, further states are similarly taking action.
- The Malaysian government intends to prohibit social media for teenagers effective next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has increased the required age for the platform Instagram to 16.
But, global organizations adopt a more measured tone. The UN children's agency has warned that age-based restrictions carry risks and "may even backfire". The organization highlights that the internet can be a "vital connection" for isolated youth and that government action should not be a "replacement" for tech companies to invest in child safeguards.
Even as this international debate evolves, the steps of Australia and others demonstrate that states around the world are less and less willing to delay for tech companies to self-regulate.
