The nation's controversial action to ban social media access for those under 16 is sending ripples internationally. Politicians, safety advocates, and parents are monitoring intently to see if this strategy will inspire imitation for other nations.
The European Trend
Across Europe, a increasing chorus of states are considering similar bans.
- Denmark plans a restriction on social media for under-15s, with the prime minister arguing that smartphones and platforms are "robbing our children's childhood". Legislation could be formalized soon.
- Norway is set to introduce a minimum age limit of 15, pointing to the need to protect young people from the "influence of the recommendation systems".
- Ireland is working on a digital wallet to authenticate the user details of social media users. The media minister have suggested that an Australia-style ban is "one of the measures under consideration".
- In Spain, the president has called on the legislature to pass a bill raising the access age for using social media to 16.
- In The French government, the head of state has proposed a ban for under-15s, and a government panel has recommended a similar action, potentially involving an overnight "digital curfew" for 15- to 18-year-olds.
- The government in the Netherlands has recommended families to restrict their children from social media before 15.
Across the European Union, the European parliament has adopted a non-binding resolution calling for a ban for minors unless a parent decides otherwise is given. Although it cautions of the "compulsive" design of these services, the move does not enact mandatory rules.
"A strong age restriction is a solid starting point," commented one MEP driving the resolution.
Britain: A Watchful Approach
Across Britain, the leadership has not ruled out a potential ban, emphasizing that "no option is discarded" but stressing any action must be "grounded in strong research".
Last year, momentum gathered behind a proposal to enact controls on social media use by under-16s, but it was ultimately modified. Instead, the administration pledged to investigate the matter.
Advocacy groups have voiced concerns. A prominent charity founded by the loved ones of a teenager who took her own life after viewing harmful online content argues that a blanket age ban could fail to make platforms safer and could lead to a "cliff edge" of risk when users reach the legal age.
"The Australian ban is a reaction to the refusal of the Silicon Valley to create products and services that are secure and fit for minors," commented a prominent peer.
America: A State-by-State Picture
Across America, legislation is mostly happening at the regional level against a backdrop of federal gridlock.
- Utah demands adult approval for under-18s to use social media and controls nighttime use.
- The state of Florida has signed a law barring children under fourteen from accessing social media, though it is subject to court battles.
- The state of Virginia has passed a law restricting under-16s to one hour of social media use per day, with additional time dependent on parental permission.
- The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and Louisiana have also enacted bills requiring guardian approval for minors to open social media accounts.
Despite bipartisan support and proposals from certain politicians to copy the Australian lead, a federal ban is presently seen as improbable.
Worldwide Outlook
Beyond the West, other countries are similarly exploring options.
- Malaysia intends to ban social media for under-16s beginning next year.
- Brazil has increased the required age for Instagram to 16.
Yet, international organizations strike a more measured stance. The UN children's agency has cautioned that blanket prohibitions have downsides and "might have unintended consequences". The body points out that the internet can be a "vital connection" for vulnerable young people and that government action should not be a "substitute" for platform operators to prioritize safety.
Even as this international debate continues, the actions of this nation and several other countries show that states globally are less and less content to delay for tech companies to act voluntarily.
