The nation's controversial action to restrict social networking access for young people below 16 is creating waves worldwide. Officials, child protection groups, and guardians are observing closely to see if this approach will become a template for countries abroad.
The European Momentum
In Europe, a increasing number of countries are considering similar measures.
- The Danish government plans a ban on social media for youth below 15, with the leader declaring that phones and networks are "stealing our kids' youth". A law may be formalized soon.
- Norway is planning to implement a age restriction of 15, pointing to the need to protect children from the "manipulative force of the algorithms".
- Ireland is working on a digital ID system to verify the user details of social media users. Authorities have stated that an similar ban could be "an tools on the table".
- In The Spanish government, the president has urged parliament to pass a law lifting the legal age for using social media to 16.
- In The French government, the president has proposed a ban for children below 15, and a government panel has endorsed a related step, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The authorities in The Netherlands has urged families to block their children from social media until 15.
For the broader EU, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding resolution calling for a ban for minors unless a parent decides otherwise is provided. While it warns of the "habit-forming" nature of these apps, the step does not create enforceable legislation.
"A strong age limit is a solid first step," stated a leading parliamentarian driving the initiative.
Britain: A Watchful Eye
For the United Kingdom, the government has kept open a possible ban, stating that "nothing is discarded" but stressing any policy must be "supported by robust evidence".
Previously, support grew behind a proposal to introduce controls on social media use by under-16s, but it was eventually watered down. However, the government committed to conduct more studies the issue.
Advocacy groups have voiced apprehensions. One foundation established by the loved ones of a girl who was lost after viewing harmful online content argues that a blanket age ban may not make platforms safer and could lead to a "cliff edge" of harm when users become eligible.
"Australia's ban is a response to the failure of the Silicon Valley to create platforms and apps that are appropriate and age appropriate for minors," commented a prominent child protection advocate.
The United States: A Decentralized Approach
Stateside, legislation is largely unfolding at the regional level amid national stalemate.
- The state of Utah requires adult approval for under-18s to use social media and restricts overnight use.
- Florida has enacted a law banning under-14s from creating accounts on social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- Virginia has passed a rule restricting minors to 60 minutes of social media time per day, with additional time needing parental permission.
- Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly enacted bills demanding guardian approval for teenagers to set up social media accounts.
Even with cross-party agreement and proposals from various individuals to copy the Australian example, a nationwide ban is currently seen as improbable.
Global Views
Outside of the West, further states are also exploring options.
- Malaysia plans to restrict social media for teenagers starting from next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has increased the required age for one major platform to 16.
Yet, global agencies take a more cautious position. Unicef has advised that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "may even have unintended consequences". The organization highlights that the internet can be a "lifeline" for isolated young people and that bans should not be a "replacement" for social media firms to improve child safeguards.
Even as this worldwide discussion unfolds, the steps of the Australian government and its followers indicate that policymakers globally are less and less content to stand by for the industry to act voluntarily.
