The nation's controversial move to restrict social media access for those under 16 is sparking debate around the globe. Politicians, campaigners, and parents are observing closely to see if this tactic will inspire imitation for countries abroad.
The European Momentum
Throughout Europe, a rising number of countries are exploring parallel bans.
- Denmark plans a ban on social media for children under fifteen, with the leader declaring that mobile devices and platforms are "taking away our youngsters' innocence". A law may be formalized soon.
- Norway is set to implement a minimum age limit of 15, pointing to the need to safeguard young people from the "manipulative force of the recommendation systems".
- The Irish government is developing a online verification tool to confirm the user details of social media account holders. Authorities have stated that an Australian-model ban could be "one of the tools in reserve".
- In The Spanish government, the president has called on the legislature to approve a proposal raising the legal age for using social media to 16.
- In France, the head of state has proposed a ban for under-15s, and a parliamentary commission has recommended a related move, including an overnight "internet blackout" for older teenagers.
- The administration in the Netherlands has advised families to block their youngsters from social media up to the age of 15.
Across the European Union, the EU parliament has passed a symbolic motion demanding a ban for under-16s unless guardian approval is given. Although it highlights of the "addictive" design of these services, the resolution does not establish binding law.
"A clear age barrier is a useful first step," commented one MEP supporting the initiative.
The UK: A Watchful Approach
For the United Kingdom, the administration has not ruled out a possible ban, stating that "no measure is off the table" but maintaining any action must be "grounded in robust research".
Last year, interest grew behind a legislative effort to impose controls on social media use by under-16s, but it was eventually watered down. Instead, the government committed to investigate the topic.
Charities have expressed warnings. One foundation set up by the loved ones of a young person who died after viewing dangerous online content suggests that a strict age ban may not protect children and could result in a "sudden drop-off" of exposure when young people reach the legal age.
"This ban is a response to the refusal of the social media companies to design products and services that are appropriate and age appropriate for children," commented a prominent online safety campaigner.
America: A Fragmented Landscape
Across America, legislation is largely occurring at the state government level due to national inaction.
- The state of Utah demands adult approval for minors to use social media and limits late-night use.
- Florida has passed a bill prohibiting those below 14 from joining social media, though it is subject to constitutional disputes.
- The state of Virginia has approved a regulation restricting minors to one hour of social media access per day, with extra use dependent on a guardian's okay.
- The state of Georgia, The state of Tennessee, and The state of Louisiana have also enacted measures mandating guardian approval for under-16s to set up social media accounts.
Even with bipartisan support and proposals from some individuals to copy this path, a federal ban is presently seen as unlikely.
International Outlook
Apart from these regions, other states are similarly exploring options.
- Malaysia plans to restrict social media for teenagers starting from next year.
- Brazil has raised the required age for one major platform to 16.
But, international bodies adopt a more cautious tone. A major UN agency has cautioned that age-based restrictions carry risks and "may even prove counterproductive". The agency points out that the internet can be a "lifeline" for marginalized children and that government action should not be a "excuse" for social media firms to prioritize child safeguards.
As this global conversation evolves, the steps of the Australian government and several other countries indicate that states internationally are increasingly willing to delay for tech companies to act voluntarily.
