The nation's decisive policy to restrict social platforms access for individuals under sixteen is sending ripples internationally. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and parents are monitoring with great interest to see if this approach will set a precedent for other nations.
Across Europe Momentum
Across Europe, a rising group of countries are exploring similar measures.
- The Danish government has stated a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister declaring that mobile devices and networks are "robbing our children's childhood". The policy is expected to be formalized soon.
- Norway is preparing to introduce a minimum age limit of 15, citing the need to safeguard the young from the "manipulative force of the algorithms".
- Ireland is working on a online verification tool to verify the age and identity of social media users. Officials have indicated that an similar ban could be "an tools on the table".
- In Spain, the prime minister has asked the legislature to enact a proposal lifting the access 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 endorsed a similar step, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has advised guardians to block their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has adopted a symbolic motion demanding a ban for teenagers under 16 unless a parent decides otherwise is granted. While it cautions of the "addictive" quality of these services, the step does not create enforceable legislation.
"A clear age barrier is a useful starting point," stated a leading MEP behind the measure.
The UK: A Watchful Eye
For the United Kingdom, the government has remained open to a possible ban, arguing that "no measure is being dismissed" but stressing any action must be "grounded in conclusive data".
Last year, support gathered behind a bill to impose limits on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately modified. However, the government committed to investigate the matter.
Advocacy groups have raised concerns. An organization set up by the family of a teenager who was lost after viewing harmful platform posts contends that a blanket age ban may not improve online safety and could lead to a "cliff edge" of exposure when teens turn 16.
"The Australian ban is a response to the refusal of the Silicon Valley to design tools that are appropriate and suitable for children," stated a prominent peer.
The US: A State-by-State Approach
Across America, legislation is primarily occurring at the regional government level due to country-wide stalemate.
- Utah requires guardian permission for those under 18 to use social media and controls nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has enacted a measure barring under-14s from joining social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
- Virginia has enacted a law capping under-16s to 60 minutes of social media use per day, with extra time dependent on a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have also enacted measures requiring adult authorization for under-16s to open social media accounts.
Despite cross-party agreement and calls from various individuals to follow Australia's path, a US-wide ban is currently seen as improbable.
Global Perspectives
Outside of Europe and the US, other states are likewise taking action.
- The Malaysian government aims to restrict social media for teenagers effective next year.
- Brazil has increased the minimum age for Instagram to 16.
But, international agencies adopt a more measured position. The UN children's agency has warned that blanket prohibitions carry risks and "might have unintended consequences". The agency points out that online platforms can be a "lifeline" for isolated youth and that regulation should not be a "replacement" for platform operators to prioritize safety.
While this worldwide debate unfolds, the policies of this nation and several other countries demonstrate that governments globally are no longer content to delay for the industry to self-regulate.
