The nation's bold policy to restrict social networking access for young people below 16 is sending ripples around the globe. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and families are observing with great interest to see if this strategy will inspire imitation for countries abroad.
The European Momentum
Across Europe, a rising number of states are considering parallel bans.
- Denmark has announced a ban on social media for under-15s, with the PM stating that smartphones and networks are "stealing our kids' innocence". Legislation may be enacted next year.
- The Norwegian government is preparing to implement a minimum age limit of 15, citing the need to shield the young from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is developing a online verification tool to confirm the identity and age of social media account holders. Authorities have suggested that an similar ban remains "a potential options on the table".
- In Spain, the prime minister has called on lawmakers to enact a bill lifting the minimum age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the president has threatened a ban for children below 15, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a similar action, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The administration in The Netherlands has recommended guardians to prevent their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the bloc's legislature has adopted a symbolic statement calling for a ban for minors except if guardian approval is granted. While it cautions of the "compulsive" design of these platforms, the step does not establish mandatory rules.
"A strong age limit is a solid first step," stated a leading parliamentarian supporting the measure.
The UK: A Watchful Approach
In the UK, the leadership has kept open a future ban, arguing that "no option is discarded" but insisting any policy must be "grounded in strong research".
Last year, interest built behind a proposal to introduce limits on social media use by minors, but it was ultimately weakened. Instead, the administration committed to further research the matter.
Charities have raised concerns. One foundation established by the loved ones of a teenager who died after viewing harmful platform posts argues that a simple age ban may not improve online safety and could create a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when users turn 16.
"Australia's ban is a response to the inability of the social media companies to build platforms and apps that are secure and age appropriate for young users," said a leading peer.
America: A Fragmented Picture
In the United States, legislation is mostly unfolding at the regional level amid federal inaction.
- Utah requires adult approval for under-18s to use social media and restricts nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has signed a measure prohibiting under-14s from joining social media, though it is subject to legal challenges.
- Virginia has approved a rule restricting minors to one hour of social media use per day, with any further access needing a guardian's okay.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly enacted bills demanding adult authorization for teenagers to open social media profiles.
Even with bipartisan support and proposals from various figures to mimic Australia's example, a nationwide ban is currently seen as a distant prospect.
International Views
Apart from Europe and the US, other states are likewise exploring options.
- Malaysia intends to ban social media for teenagers effective next year.
- Brazil has raised the minimum age for one major platform to 16.
But, global bodies strike a more nuanced position. A major UN agency has cautioned that blanket prohibitions pose dangers and "might backfire". The body points out that the internet can be a "vital connection" for vulnerable children and that regulation should not be a "replacement" for platform operators to prioritize safety.
While this international discussion continues, the actions of the Australian government and its followers demonstrate that states globally are no longer willing to wait for the industry to make changes on their own.
