The nation's controversial policy to ban social platforms access for those under 16 is creating waves around the globe. Lawmakers, safety advocates, and parents are watching intently to see if this approach will set a precedent for the rest of the world.
European Momentum
Throughout Europe, a growing number of nations are considering comparable measures.
- The Danish government plans a prohibition on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister stating that phones and apps are "taking away our children's youth". The policy is expected to be passed in the coming year.
- Norway is preparing to enforce a access barrier of 15, highlighting the need to protect the young from the "power of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is working on a digital wallet to confirm the user details of social media participants. The media minister have suggested that an similar ban remains "an options under consideration".
- In Spain, the president has called on parliament to enact a bill raising the legal age for joining social media to 16.
- In The French government, the president has floated the idea of a ban for those under fifteen, and a legislative committee has suggested a related step, alongside an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The administration in the Netherlands has urged families to prevent their kids from social media until 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has adopted a non-binding motion calling for a ban for teenagers under 16 unless a parent decides otherwise is given. Although it warns of the "habit-forming" design of these apps, the step does not establish enforceable legislation.
"A strong age barrier is a good starting point," stated a leading European lawmaker supporting the resolution.
The United Kingdom: A Watchful Eye
For the United Kingdom, the government has remained open to a potential ban, emphasizing that "no measure is off the table" but insisting any policy must be "supported by robust research".
Last year, interest gathered behind a legislative effort to enact limits on social media use by teenagers, but it was ultimately modified. Instead, the government vowed to investigate the matter.
Charities have raised apprehensions. One foundation founded by the family of a girl who died after viewing disturbing online content suggests that a simple age ban might not protect children and could create a "dangerous transition" of risk when users become eligible.
"The Australian ban is a response to the failure of the tech sector to build products and services that are appropriate and age appropriate for young users," commented a prominent child protection advocate.
The US: A Decentralized Approach
Stateside, action is largely unfolding at the local level due to country-wide stalemate.
- The state of Utah requires guardian permission for under-18s to use social media and limits late-night use.
- Florida has enacted a measure prohibiting those below 14 from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- The state of Virginia has enacted a rule restricting teenagers to a single hour of social media use per day, with additional time requiring parental permission.
- Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have similarly enacted laws demanding parental consent for under-16s to open social media profiles.
Despite cross-party agreement and calls from some politicians to mimic Australia's lead, a nationwide ban is right now seen as improbable.
Global Outlook
Apart from these regions, other countries are likewise considering moves.
- The Malaysian government aims to ban social media for those under sixteen effective next year.
- Brazil has raised the access age for one major platform to 16.
But, global organizations adopt a more nuanced stance. A major UN agency has advised that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "might prove counterproductive". The agency notes that social networks can be a "critical link" for marginalized young people and that government action should not be a "substitute" for social media firms to improve user protection.
While this worldwide conversation continues, the actions of the Australian government and others demonstrate that governments globally are less and less prepared to stand by for tech companies to act voluntarily.
