The Australian controversial policy to restrict social networking access for individuals under sixteen is creating waves around the globe. Lawmakers, campaigners, and families are monitoring closely to see if this strategy will set a precedent for countries abroad.
The European Movement
In Europe, a growing number of countries are exploring similar measures.
- Denmark plans a ban on social media for children under fifteen, with the leader declaring that smartphones and networks are "robbing our children's innocence". The policy is expected to be formalized in the coming year.
- Norway is planning to introduce a access barrier of 15, citing the need to safeguard young people from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
- The Irish government is developing a online verification tool to verify the identity and age of social media participants. Officials have indicated that an Australian-model ban is "an measures under consideration".
- In Spain, the president has asked the legislature to approve a proposal increasing the legal age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has floated the idea of a ban for those under fifteen, and a government panel has endorsed a similar move, alongside an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The government in The Netherlands has advised guardians to prevent their kids from social media before 15.
For the broader EU, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding resolution supporting a ban for teenagers under 16 unless parental consent is given. Although it cautions of the "habit-forming" quality of these platforms, the move does not enact binding law.
"A clear age limit is a solid starting point," commented one parliamentarian supporting the resolution.
The United Kingdom: A Cautious Eye
Across Britain, the administration has not ruled out a possible ban, stating that "no option is off the table" but stressing any decision must be "based on strong research".
Earlier, momentum grew behind a proposal to introduce controls on social media use by minors, but it was in the end weakened. Nonetheless, the administration committed to investigate the topic.
Advocacy groups have voiced concerns. An organization established by the relatives of a teenager who was lost after viewing disturbing platform posts contends that a blanket age ban could fail to protect children and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when young people turn 16.
"This ban is a answer to the refusal of the social media companies to build platforms and apps that are appropriate and fit for children," said a leading child protection advocate.
America: A Fragmented Landscape
In the United States, action is primarily happening at the local level amid country-wide stalemate.
- The state of Utah demands adult approval for under-18s to use social media and controls late-night use.
- Florida has signed a measure prohibiting children under fourteen from joining social media, though it is subject to legal challenges.
- The state of Virginia has enacted a law limiting minors to one hour of social media access per day, with extra access needing adult consent.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise introduced laws mandating guardian approval for minors to open social media profiles.
Despite widespread concern and calls from some politicians to mimic Australia's path, a nationwide ban is presently seen as improbable.
Worldwide Views
Outside of Europe and the US, further countries are likewise considering moves.
- Malaysia aims to ban social media for those under sixteen beginning next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has increased the minimum age for Instagram to 16.
But, global agencies adopt a more cautious position. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions pose dangers and "might backfire". The agency points out that the internet can be a "vital connection" for isolated youth and that bans should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to invest in child safeguards.
While this worldwide debate continues, the policies of Australia and several other countries indicate that governments globally are less and less content to stand by for the industry to make changes on their own.
