Could Additional Countries Follow Australia's Example in Prohibiting Social Platforms for Under-16s?

The nation's controversial action to restrict social platforms access for young people below 16 is creating waves worldwide. Politicians, campaigners, and guardians are watching closely to see if this approach will set a precedent for other nations.

Across Europe Momentum

Throughout Europe, a growing number of countries are considering similar restrictions.

• The Danish government has announced a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister stating that phones and platforms are "stealing our kids' childhood". Legislation could be passed next year.
• Norway is set to implement a access barrier of 15, citing the need to safeguard children from the "influence of the AI".
• The Irish government is developing a online verification tool to verify the age and identity of social media participants. Officials have indicated that an similar ban is "one of the options in reserve".
• In Spain, the prime minister has asked lawmakers to pass a bill lifting the legal age for using social media to 16.
• In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for those under fifteen, and a legislative committee has suggested a related action, potentially involving an overnight "screen time restriction" for adolescents.
• The government in The Netherlands has urged guardians to block their kids from social media before 15.

For the broader EU, the EU parliament has approved a symbolic motion supporting a ban for minors without a parent decides otherwise is given. Even though it cautions of the "compulsive" quality of these platforms, the resolution does not create enforceable legislation.

"An effective age restriction is a solid foundation," commented a leading European lawmaker driving the resolution.

The United Kingdom: An Evidence-Based Approach

In the UK, the leadership has not ruled out a future ban, stating that "nothing is off the table" but stressing any policy must be "grounded in conclusive research".

Earlier, momentum gathered behind a legislative effort to enact controls on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately watered down. Nonetheless, the government pledged to conduct more studies the issue.

Advocacy groups have expressed warnings. One foundation established by the family of a girl who died after encountering dangerous online content contends that a blanket age ban might not protect children and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when teens turn 16.

"The Australian ban is a response to the inability of the Silicon Valley to design products and services that are secure and age appropriate for minors," said a leading online safety campaigner.

The US: A Fragmented Approach

Across America, action is mostly unfolding at the local government level due to federal stalemate.

• Utah demands parental consent for minors to use social media and limits late-night use.
• Florida has enacted a law barring those below 14 from joining social media, though it is subject to court battles.
• The state of Virginia has approved a rule limiting minors to one hour of social media access per day, with any further time needing parental permission.
• The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly enacted laws mandating guardian approval for minors to set up social media presences.

Even with bipartisan support and suggestions from some individuals to copy the Australian lead, a federal ban is currently seen as a distant prospect.

Worldwide Perspectives

Outside of Europe and the US, further countries are also taking action.

• Malaysia intends to restrict social media for teenagers beginning next year.
• Brazil has increased the required age for one major platform to 16.

But, world bodies take a more cautious tone. A major UN agency has warned that social media bans carry risks and "could have unintended consequences". The agency points out that social networks can be a "vital connection" for isolated children and that regulation should not be a "replacement" for tech companies to invest in child safeguards.

Even as this international debate continues, the actions of the Australian government and several other countries show that policymakers globally are less and less willing to delay for platforms to make changes on their own.