The Australian decisive policy to ban social media access for individuals under sixteen is sparking debate internationally. Officials, campaigners, and guardians are watching intently to see if this approach will set a precedent for countries abroad.
European Movement
Throughout Europe, a increasing chorus of states are considering similar measures.
- Denmark has announced a restriction on social media for children under fifteen, with the leader arguing that mobile devices and platforms are "taking away our children's childhood". Legislation could be enacted next year.
- Norway is set to enforce a age restriction of 15, citing the need to protect children from the "manipulative force of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is working on a online verification tool to authenticate the age and identity of social media users. Authorities have indicated that an Australia-style ban could be "an measures under consideration".
- In The Spanish government, the president has urged the legislature to enact a law increasing the access age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the leader has floated the idea of a ban for children below 15, and a parliamentary commission has suggested a similar action, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The authorities in the Netherlands has recommended guardians to prevent their youngsters from social media until 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding motion demanding a ban for under-16s except if a parent decides otherwise is given. Although it cautions of the "habit-forming" quality of these services, the move does not establish enforceable legislation.
"An effective age limit is a useful foundation," commented the MEP behind the initiative.
The United Kingdom: A Watchful Approach
Across Britain, the leadership has remained open to a possible ban, stating that "no option is off the table" but maintaining any policy must be "grounded in conclusive evidence".
Last year, momentum built behind a proposal to impose limits on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately weakened. Nonetheless, the administration pledged to conduct more studies the matter.
Advocacy groups have expressed concerns. An organization founded by the loved ones of a girl who was lost after being exposed to harmful online content suggests that a simple age ban may not protect children and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when users turn 16.
"The Australian ban is a response to the failure of the tech sector to build tools that are secure and age appropriate for children," commented a prominent peer.
The United States: A Decentralized Landscape
Across America, legislation is mostly unfolding at the state government level amid country-wide inaction.
- Utah mandates parental consent for under-18s to use social media and restricts late-night use.
- The state of Florida has enacted a bill banning under-14s from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- Virginia has passed a law capping under-16s to one hour of social media use per day, with extra time requiring a guardian's okay.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have also passed measures requiring parental consent for teenagers to set up social media profiles.
Despite bipartisan support and calls from certain individuals to mimic Australia's path, a nationwide ban is presently seen as unlikely.
Global Perspectives
Apart from the West, other states are similarly exploring options.
- Malaysia intends to prohibit social media for those under sixteen effective next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has increased the minimum age for the platform Instagram to 16.
But, global organizations strike a more measured position. A major UN agency has advised that age-based restrictions pose dangers and "could have unintended consequences". The organization points out that the internet can be a "critical link" for isolated children and that regulation should not be a "excuse" for tech companies to improve user protection.
While this global discussion unfolds, the actions of this nation and its followers show that states around the world are increasingly content to stand by for platforms to self-regulate.
