Global social media bans for minors expand amid mental health concerns

Governments worldwide are increasingly implementing or proposing bans on social media use for minors, citing concerns over youth mental health, privacy, and safety. Australia and the United Kingdom have already enacted prohibitions for children under 16, while over 20 other nations, including Canada and Greece, are considering similar measures.

In France, a recent attempt to ban social media for children under 15 was ruled unconstitutional by the Constitutional Council, which found it excessively infringed upon freedom of expression. The French government is now working on a revised approach that focuses on disabling harmful or addictive features rather than a blanket ban, while also respecting parental authority.

In Japan, discussions are shifting from simple age restrictions toward the responsibility of platform designers. Experts highlight the risks of addictive algorithms and infinite scrolling, which can lead to decreased concentration and increased anxiety. While many families attempt to set household rules, enforcement remains a significant challenge for parents.