The nation's controversial policy to prohibit social media access for individuals under sixteen is sparking debate internationally. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and guardians are watching with great interest to see if this approach will set a precedent for the rest of the world.
European Momentum
In Europe, a rising number of states are considering similar restrictions.
- Denmark has stated a ban on social media for youth below 15, with the prime minister stating that phones and networks are "taking away our youngsters' innocence". The policy is expected to be enacted next year.
- Norway is set to introduce a age restriction of 15, highlighting the need to shield children from the "power of the AI".
- Ireland is introducing a online verification tool to verify the identity and age of social media account holders. The media minister have indicated that an similar ban could be "a potential measures in reserve".
- In The Spanish government, the prime minister has asked lawmakers to approve a law raising the legal age for accessing social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has threatened a ban for those under fifteen, and a government panel has recommended a comparable action, potentially involving an overnight "digital curfew" for adolescents.
- The authorities in the Netherlands has advised guardians to block their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
Across the European Union, the European parliament has approved a symbolic resolution calling for a ban for minors unless a parent decides otherwise is provided. Even though it warns of the "habit-forming" nature of these services, the move does not establish binding law.
"A strong age restriction is a solid first step," stated the parliamentarian behind the resolution.
The UK: An Evidence-Based Approach
For the United Kingdom, the administration has remained open to a possible ban, emphasizing that "no measure is off the table" but insisting any decision must be "grounded in conclusive evidence".
Earlier, support grew behind a legislative effort to impose restrictions on social media use by under-16s, but it was eventually weakened. However, the government committed to investigate the issue.
Campaign organizations have voiced concerns. An organization set up by the loved ones of a young person who died after viewing disturbing platform posts argues that a simple age ban might not make platforms safer and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of risk when users reach the legal age.
"This ban is a response to the refusal of the social media companies to create products and services that are safe and age appropriate for young users," said a influential child protection advocate.
America: A Fragmented Landscape
Stateside, legislation is largely happening at the regional level due to national gridlock.
- Utah requires parental consent for those under 18 to use social media and controls late-night use.
- Florida has passed a law prohibiting under-14s from creating accounts on social media, though it is entangled in constitutional disputes.
- The state of Virginia has passed a rule capping minors to one hour of social media use per day, with extra time dependent on parental permission.
- The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise enacted bills mandating guardian approval for under-16s to create social media presences.
Even with bipartisan support and proposals from some figures to follow Australia's lead, a nationwide ban is right now seen as unlikely.
International Outlook
Outside of these regions, other countries are likewise considering moves.
- Malaysia plans to restrict social media for those under sixteen effective next year.
- Brazil has increased the required age for the platform Instagram to 16.
However, world bodies take a more measured position. The UN children's agency has warned that age-based restrictions carry risks and "may even have unintended consequences". The agency points out that social networks can be a "lifeline" for vulnerable young people and that government action should not be a "replacement" for social media firms to prioritize safety.
While this international debate unfolds, the actions of Australia and several other countries show that governments internationally are increasingly prepared to stand by for tech companies to make changes on their own.
