The nation's bold policy to prohibit social platforms access for those under 16 is sending ripples internationally. Politicians, safety advocates, and families are watching intently to see if this tactic will set a precedent for countries abroad.
Across Europe Momentum
In Europe, a growing chorus of countries are moving toward similar bans.
- Denmark has stated a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the leader declaring that mobile devices and platforms are "robbing our kids' childhood". Legislation is expected to be enacted soon.
- Norway is set to introduce a access barrier of 15, highlighting the need to safeguard the young from the "manipulative force of the AI".
- The Irish government is introducing a digital ID system to authenticate the user details of social media users. Authorities have indicated that an Australia-style ban remains "one of the options in reserve".
- In Spain, the president has called on lawmakers to approve a law lifting the legal age for joining social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has threatened a ban for under-15s, and a legislative committee has endorsed a related step, alongside an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The administration in The Netherlands has advised guardians to restrict their children from social media up to the age of 15.
At the EU level, the EU parliament has approved a non-binding statement supporting a ban for under-16s without a parent decides otherwise is given. While it warns of the "addictive" quality of these apps, the move does not establish binding law.
"A clear age restriction is a useful first step," commented one parliamentarian supporting the resolution.
The UK: A Cautious Stance
Across Britain, the administration has not ruled out a potential ban, arguing that "no option is discarded" but stressing any policy must be "grounded in conclusive data".
Last year, interest grew behind a legislative effort to enact restrictions on social media use by under-16s, but it was eventually modified. Nonetheless, the government vowed to further research the topic.
Advocacy groups have voiced concerns. One foundation set up by the family of a girl who was lost after viewing dangerous social media material argues that a strict age ban may not improve online safety and could lead to a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when teens become eligible.
"Australia's ban is a answer to the refusal of the tech sector to create products and services that are safe and fit for children," commented a prominent child protection advocate.
The US: A State-by-State Approach
In the United States, action is mostly unfolding at the state government level due to federal gridlock.
- The state of Utah mandates adult approval for those under 18 to use social media and restricts late-night use.
- Florida has enacted a measure prohibiting children under fourteen from creating accounts on social media, though it is entangled in court battles.
- The state of Virginia has approved a regulation limiting under-16s to 60 minutes of social media access per day, with any further access dependent on a guardian's okay.
- The state of Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana have also introduced measures mandating guardian approval for under-16s to set up social media presences.
Despite widespread concern and proposals from certain figures to mimic the Australian lead, a nationwide ban is right now seen as unlikely.
International Perspectives
Beyond Europe and the US, additional nations are similarly exploring options.
- Malaysia aims to ban social media for teenagers effective next year.
- The Brazilian authorities has increased the access age for one major platform to 16.
However, global organizations strike a more nuanced position. Unicef has advised that blanket prohibitions carry risks and "could backfire". The agency notes that online platforms can be a "critical link" for isolated children and that government action should not be a "excuse" for platform operators to prioritize safety.
While this international debate evolves, the actions of this nation and its followers show that states globally are increasingly willing to delay for tech companies to self-regulate.
