The nation's controversial move to ban social platforms access for those under 16 is creating waves worldwide. Officials, safety advocates, and families are observing intently to see if this approach will set a precedent for countries abroad.
European Movement
Across Europe, a increasing group of states are considering comparable measures.
- Denmark plans a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that phones and platforms are "stealing our children's childhood". Legislation could be passed in the coming year.
- Norway is preparing to enforce a age restriction of 15, highlighting the need to protect the young from the "power of the algorithms".
- Ireland is working on a online verification tool to authenticate the user details of social media account holders. Authorities have stated that an Australia-style ban could be "an options in reserve".
- In The Spanish government, the prime minister has called on lawmakers to enact a bill increasing the minimum age for accessing social media to 16.
- In France, the president has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has recommended a related action, including an overnight "digital curfew" for adolescents.
- The administration in The Dutch government has advised families to prevent their youngsters from social media before 15.
For the broader EU, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding motion supporting a ban for minors except if parental consent is granted. While it cautions of the "addictive" design of these platforms, the resolution does not enact binding law.
"A strong age barrier is a useful foundation," commented the MEP behind the resolution.
The UK: An Evidence-Based Eye
For the United Kingdom, the administration has not ruled out a future ban, stating that "nothing is off the table" but stressing any decision must be "grounded in strong data".
Earlier, interest grew behind a legislative effort to enact restrictions on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately modified. However, the administration committed to investigate the matter.
Campaign organizations have raised concerns. A prominent charity founded by the loved ones of a young person who took her own life after being exposed to disturbing platform posts argues that a blanket age ban might not protect children and could create a "dangerous transition" of risk when teens become eligible.
"This ban is a response to the refusal of the social media companies to create products and services that are secure and fit for young users," said a influential child protection advocate.
The US: A State-by-State Approach
In the United States, action is primarily occurring at the local level amid federal stalemate.
- The state of Utah requires adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and limits late-night use.
- The state of Florida has enacted a law barring children under fourteen from creating accounts on social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
- The state of Virginia has enacted a rule restricting teenagers to one hour of social media use per day, with any further access dependent on a guardian's okay.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have likewise enacted laws demanding guardian approval for under-16s to set up social media presences.
Despite cross-party agreement and suggestions from various figures to copy this lead, a US-wide ban is currently seen as improbable.
Worldwide Outlook
Beyond Europe and the US, further countries are likewise taking action.
- The Malaysian government plans to ban social media for under-16s effective next year.
- Brazil has raised the required age for Instagram to 16.
However, global organizations strike a more measured stance. A major UN agency has advised that social media bans pose dangers and "may even backfire". The agency points out that social networks can be a "lifeline" for marginalized children and that regulation should not be a "substitute" for tech companies to improve user protection.
As this global discussion continues, the steps of the Australian government and its followers indicate that states around the world are less and less willing to stand by for platforms to make changes on their own.
