Australia's controversial move to prohibit social networking access for individuals under sixteen is sparking debate around the globe. Lawmakers, campaigners, and parents are monitoring intently to see if this tactic will become a template for countries abroad.
Across Europe Trend
Across Europe, a rising group of states are moving toward similar bans.
- Denmark has stated a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that smartphones and networks are "stealing our children's youth". The policy is expected to be formalized soon.
- Norway is planning to introduce a minimum age limit of 15, highlighting the need to shield the young from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is developing a digital wallet to authenticate the identity and age of social media users. Officials have stated that an similar ban remains "a potential tools under consideration".
- In Spain, the leader has asked parliament to enact a proposal increasing the access age for using social media to 16.
- In The French government, the president has threatened a ban for those under fifteen, and a legislative committee has recommended a similar action, including an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has urged parents to restrict their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has approved a advisory resolution supporting a ban for minors without parental consent is given. While it warns of the "habit-forming" nature of these services, the step does not enact binding law.
"A strong age barrier is a solid foundation," said one MEP supporting the resolution.
The United Kingdom: An Evidence-Based Stance
In the UK, the administration has kept open a future ban, stating that "no option is being dismissed" but maintaining any policy must be "supported by strong research".
Last year, interest grew behind a bill to enact restrictions on social media use by teenagers, but it was ultimately modified. Nonetheless, the administration committed to further research the matter.
Advocacy groups have raised warnings. An organization set up by the relatives of a teenager who was lost after being exposed to dangerous platform posts suggests that a blanket age ban might not make platforms safer and could result in a "cliff edge" of exposure when teens reach the legal age.
"Australia's ban is a reaction to the refusal of the Silicon Valley to build tools that are secure and age appropriate for minors," commented a influential peer.
The United States: A State-by-State Approach
In the United States, action is mostly occurring at the state level due to national gridlock.
- The state of Utah demands adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and limits late-night use.
- Florida has passed a law prohibiting those below 14 from accessing social media, though it faces legal challenges.
- The state of Virginia has approved a law restricting under-16s to one hour of social media use per day, with additional access dependent on a guardian's okay.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise passed measures demanding parental consent for teenagers to set up social media profiles.
Even with cross-party agreement and proposals from certain politicians to mimic Australia's example, a federal ban is right now seen as unlikely.
Global Views
Outside of these regions, additional countries are likewise taking action.
- Malaysia aims to restrict social media for teenagers effective next year.
- Brazil has increased the required age for one major platform to 16.
However, international agencies adopt a more measured tone. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions pose dangers and "may even have unintended consequences". The agency notes that social networks can be a "critical link" for marginalized young people and that bans should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to improve safety.
While this global debate continues, the steps of the Australian government and its followers demonstrate that states around the world are no longer willing to wait for the industry to self-regulate.
