The nation's bold action to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is sparking debate worldwide. Politicians, campaigners, and parents are observing intently to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for countries abroad.
Across Europe Momentum
Throughout Europe, a rising chorus of countries are considering comparable measures.
- Denmark plans a restriction on social media for children under fifteen, with the PM stating that smartphones and platforms are "robbing our kids' innocence". Legislation is expected to be formalized soon.
- Norway is preparing to implement a age restriction of 15, citing the need to shield young people from the "manipulative force of the algorithms".
- The Irish government is introducing a digital ID system to authenticate the user details of social media participants. Authorities have suggested that an similar ban could be "an tools on the table".
- In Spain, the president has asked parliament to approve a law increasing the minimum age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the president has floated the idea of a ban for those under fifteen, and a legislative committee has recommended a comparable move, including an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Dutch government has advised guardians to prevent their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
For the broader EU, the European parliament has adopted a symbolic resolution supporting a ban for under-16s unless a parent decides otherwise is given. Even though it highlights of the "addictive" nature of these services, the resolution does not create binding law.
"A strong age barrier is a solid foundation," stated one European lawmaker supporting the resolution.
The UK: A Cautious Stance
For the United Kingdom, the administration has not ruled out a potential ban, stating that "no option is being dismissed" but maintaining any action must be "supported by strong evidence".
Last year, interest gathered behind a proposal to introduce controls on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately watered down. Instead, the administration pledged to investigate the topic.
Charities have expressed concerns. An organization established by the family of a young person who died after viewing harmful social media material suggests that a simple age ban may not improve online safety and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of risk when users reach the legal age.
"This ban is a answer to the inability of the tech sector to create platforms and apps that are safe and fit for young users," commented a prominent peer.
The US: A Decentralized Landscape
In the United States, regulation is primarily happening at the state level against a backdrop of country-wide gridlock.
- Utah mandates parental consent for under-18s to use social media and limits nighttime use.
- Florida has passed a measure banning under-14s from joining social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has approved a regulation restricting teenagers to a single hour of social media time per day, with additional time requiring a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly passed laws demanding parental consent for teenagers to open social media accounts.
Even with cross-party agreement and proposals from various individuals to mimic the Australian example, a nationwide ban is presently seen as unlikely.
International Perspectives
Beyond Europe and the US, other states are similarly exploring options.
- Malaysia intends to ban social media for teenagers starting from next year.
- Brazil has lifted the required age for Instagram to 16.
But, international agencies take a more nuanced stance. The UN children's agency has warned that social media bans carry risks and "might backfire". The agency highlights that online platforms can be a "vital connection" for marginalized young people and that bans should not be a "replacement" for tech companies to prioritize child safeguards.
Even as this international conversation continues, the policies of Australia and several other countries demonstrate that governments around the world are no longer willing to stand by for platforms to act voluntarily.
